A Mediocre Thought

Do you ever get frustrated by people who are just happy to 'show up'? I do! - This is a rant!

I remember watching the 2006 Winter Olympics and being embarrased to be a Canadian. Not because we didn't win our fair share of medals - but because of the attitude of our losing athletes. After an event was over the commentators would interview the athlete and ask the age old question - "How do you feel about your performance?". The althlete (who'd finished no better than 42nd) would typically respond with this answer - "I'm just happy to be here! It's been such a great experience!!". One after another the Canadians looked like a bunch of hacks who couldn't believe they were at the biggest sporting event in the world! Contrast that with the typical American who had just finished 2nd. What was their response? "I'm a bit disappointed with my performance today. I had really set my sights on Gold but I'll be back in again in 4 years ready to do better!"

So what exactly is that? Apathy? Laziness? A belief that we aren't destined for something great? Whatever it is I'm finding that it bothers me more and more.

Unfortunately I also see that 'participant' attitude prevailing in the local church. We've said the sinners prayer and now we're more than happy to get our participation ribbon. Who's training hard? Who's running to win? Paul says "So I press on to WIN the prize"!!

I think the following statement reflects how silly this attitude is: "I'm very proud of myself. I used to beat my wife 7 days a week and now I only beat her Monday through Thursday!"

That's not commendable - that's down right shameful.

I'm so tired of people who say things like "At least I'm not as messed up as that guy" or "We're a whole lot better at it than our parents were". SO WHAT! A 2 comparing themselves to a 1 has little to be proud of. When are we going to finally realize that God created us to be marvelous creatures!! Fully developed! Fully free! Fully alive!! Life upon life!!!

I think it's time for us to stop patting ourselves on the back for our past advancements and look at the future glory set before us (which is attainable!!).