A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE

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By: Audrey B. Unruh

You never know

I recently heard a story that I thought was quite interesting.  

There was a young man named Bill that had just graduated from Stanford.  He had been dating a young lady by the name of Sandy who was also attending Stanford. He wanted to meet her parents, so after being invited to their home, he planned his trip.  

Her parents owned a huge cattle ranch and upon his visit, they included Bill in all of the workings of the ranch. This was something entirely different for Bill, but he was a good sport and participated in everything, wanting to make a good impression on Sandy and the entire family.  Sandy was involved in all the workings of her parents ranch, as she had done all her life. Nothing bothered her and she held her own in every situation.  After his visit, Bill and Sandy continued to date for a while, but time took its toll, Bill waited too long to ask for her hand in marriage, each went their own way, and she ended up marrying someone else.

Thirty years later, the then President of the United States, Ronald Reagan asked Bill if a certain young woman could be intimidated by a room full of men. Bill’s resounding answer was NO.  She can definitely hold her own.  You see Bill, better known as the Honorable Supreme Court Justice William Rehnquist, gave his approval for Sandy to become the first female nominated and confirmed to be associate justice of the Supreme Court, Sandra Day O’Connor.  Her life’s responses to situations from her past had given her the reputation of strength and stability.  

One never knows who might be watching our lives as we go through everyday situations and experiences. Our responses can be life changing and might make the difference in not only our lives, but also the lives of others. May each of us walk worthy of what the Lord has given us to use for the betterment of others. We all are a ‘walking book’ that others daily read.