Gene's Column

Are We Any Different from Bill Gates?
Bill Gates is the legendary founder of the renowned Microsoft. He is one rich and powerful person. In fact, he’s a multi-billionaire. Yet, in the “big picture,” what does this really mean… and how does his destiny differ from ours?

We must all be resigned to this sobering fact: as the noted Czech philosopher, Franz Kafka, observed, “The meaning of life, is that it stops.” And if my computation is correct, Bill Gates’ time here on earth is limited too, just like the rest of us! Imagine all that money, and so little time!

While this may not seem to be the most inspirational news you have heard today, there is a positive message as well. I believe that our greatest challenge is to enjoy our time – no matter what the circumstances; to be comfortable with ourselves and to celebrate each day.
The longest life ends too soon; a flickering tick on the clock of eternity. And yet, we do have enough time to sensibly chart our future course. For we can determine how we use each day, all the more precious for being limited.

The number of our years may be beyond our control, but their quality and importance depends on us. Periodically adjusting our expectations, while adapting to our changing situations, becomes the guiding “rule of the day.” You don’t have to be the wealthiest or the most successful to live each day to the fullest. And I’m sure Mr. Gates, as well as Franz Kafka, would agree.