Tribute

Some want to be remembered "forever". My rich grandfather donated money to a school so it carried his name. I remember seeing the model of it when I was little but never felt proud or other strong feeling about it. 20 years after his death, the school is gone along with his name.

Then there are those who want applause, crowd recognition, a prize. I remember a sermon about the reward that awaits in heaven. For some reason, the prospect of this kind of recognition failed to motivate me.

I just wanted to be in the company of someone who accepted me as me no matter how old, ugly, invalid, angry I got. Then all accomplishment is just icing or the cherry on the cake. True substance and fulfillment is simple but costly. For in order for that acceptance to occur, I have to face myself and deal with all the potential for failure. It is painful but worth it.

So I don't need tribute that is designed for public consumption. It's encouraging to get applause, a prize, your name on a sign, it doesn't really matter. But all I really need is to be in the arms of someone who loves the child inside.

Even Michael Bolton manages to scream out this truth in this cartoon song.