IN today’s society, people often associate success with wealth, power, or status for a variety of reasons. Our society perpetuates the idea that being rich, powerful, or famous equates to a successful life. We are exposed every day to images of celebrities, wealthy business people, and powerful politicians living extravagant lifestyles, leading us to believe that this is the path to success. Moreover, our environment has become more competitive than ever before, and people feel the need to compare themselves to others constantly.
Living and raising my family in Davao City taught me that in measuring a man’s worth in life, we must see his character. Thus, I learned to persevere and guard my words and actions. Because I am what I do, not what I say I'll do. We should not be a big talker. We must let our actions speak for us. We should not make empty promises. I also learned that if I want to achieve success, I should stop asking for permission or relying on the opinion of other people. I should believe in my inner strength to live my life without constantly looking for the approval of those around me. But in the process, I need to be kind and humble as well. I also need to make sure that I am not stepping on the toes of other people.
Last Sunday, my family and I had our usual weekend dinner in one of the restaurants at The Compound in Tulip Drive. While we dine, I reflected upon the thought that measuring a man’s worth goes beyond the pursuit of material possessions. It involves evaluating one’s character, values, and how we face the challenges that life presents.
I also remember this saying from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. that says, “The Ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge”. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance and grit during the challenging times in life. It is easy to remain composed and confident when everything falls into place, but true character is displayed when one faces adversity. The way an individual handles unfavorable situations, such as rejections, financial setbacks, illness, or loss, speaks volumes about their resilience and determination to succeed. A man who persists in the face of challenges can develop a sense of self-reliance and confidence that can be applied to any facet of life.
Therefore, the true measure of a man lies in his ability to overcome challenges and his treatment of others, especially those individuals he meets along the way who may or may not offer any personal benefit to him. Success is not defined solely by material possessions or achievements; it involves recognizing the value of character, integrity, and compassion. A man who exhibits these traits is worth more than his possessions, and his impact on those around him is immeasurable.