The One Certainty Of History

When a man who writes history for fifty years tells me there is "one certainty of history," I want to hear what he has to say.

The man is David McCullough. McCullough published his first work of history in 1968 (I was nine years old). His books include:

McCullough's awards and honors include two Pulitzer Prizes, two National Book Awards, and two Francis Parkman Prizes from the American Society of Historians. Impressive is an understatement. As a historian, he is qualified to make his bold assertion.

Friday I heard it.

I sat on the second row of the Carole and Barry Kaye Performing Arts Auditorium on the campus of Florida Atlantic University eagerly anticipating McCullough's lecture: "Truman's Presidency and World War II at 70." No sooner did Mr. McCullough approach the lectern, greet the audience, and introduce his wife, then he said this:

“If there is one certainty of history, it is that there is no such thing as a self-made man.”

McCullough's comment is evident to those who read history -- and to those who make an honest assessment of their lives. From the most notable to the most "insignificant," people make strides in life due to the kindness of God and the influence and efforts of others.

I like the way Paul puts it: "What do you have that you did not receive?" (1 Corinthians 4:7 ESV). And Solomon reminds us: "Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor" (Ecclesiastes 4:9 ESV)

McCullough's words (and Paul's and Solomon's) come to mind as we re-launch Don't Ask The Fish. The hard work behind the beauty of the design, the ease of the navigation, and the technological compatibility with today's mobile devises is primarily a result of the painstaking efforts of Jeul Davies, a quiet but oh-so-essential and oh-so-delightful person on our communications team at Spanish River Church.

Knowing some of the conversations we are having behind-the-scenes to improve the site even more, these changes are just a taste of the good things to come.

Thanks Jeul!