Utilizing The Wisdom Of John D. Rockefeller Jr.

Last year I had the opportunity to spend time with Watts Wacker, a leading futurist. Watts is one of those rare individuals that can spot trends and explain in a succinct way how the lives of people and corporations may be affected by these trends. However, what I most remember from my meeting was when watts read aloud to me a quote by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. A quote that is inscribed on a small plaque outside the GE building in Rockefeller center. Watts had mentioned that his principals and way of life were very much reflected in the words within the plaque Titled: I Believe

I believe in the supreme worth of the individual and in his right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

I believe that every right implies a responsibility; every opportunity, an obligation; every possession, a duty.

I believe that the law was made for man and not man for the law; that government is the servant of the people and not their master.

I believe in the dignity of labor, whether with head or hand; that the world owes no man a living but that it owes every man an opportunity to make a living.

I believe that thrift is essential to well ordered living and that economy is a prime requisite of a sound financial structure, whether in government, business or personal affairs.

I believe that truth and justice are fundamental to an enduring social order.

I believe in the sacredness of a promise, that a man’s word should be as good as his bond; that character — not wealth or power or position — is of supreme worth.

I believe that the rendering of useful service is the common duty of mankind and that only in the purifying fire of sacrifice is the dross of selfishness consumed and the greatness of the human soul set free.

I believe in an all-wise and all-loving God, named by whatever name, and that the individual’s highest fulfillment, greatest happiness, and widest usefulness are to be found in living in harmony with His will.

I believe that love is the greatest thing in the world; that it alone can overcome hate; that right can and will triumph over might.

I was immediately taken by the power of these words. I often find myself rereading the quote when i get off center due to a problem or meeting a difficult person. It reminds me that good eventually triumphs over evil and that persistance of good works and effort will always lead to some good outcome. I thought of this quote today after watching a series of Political TV ads throwing around riduculous accusations. I dont expect we will ever see a politician who lives by the words above but I believe their are many individuals that do. If you also find these words to be powerful and you want to make an impact on the world send me an email and lets explore how we can work together.