Last weekend I had the pleasure of interviewing retired radiologist and teacher, Dr. Joseph Griffing.
Although I’ve only met him once, during that short hour, I got to know the kind, funny and smart man he is. I was so excited to tell his story on his 85th birthday.
These kinds of experiences are one of my favorite parts of this job. I really enjoy sitting down with members of this community and hearing their stories.
Griffing’s generation is, in my opinion, one of the greatest.
My own grandparents survived The Great Depression, World War II and a myriad of other events we only read about in history books.
They knew the value of family, community and of a dollar.
Nowadays, children and most young adults only concentrate on the materialistic things this world offers.
What I learned from Dr. Griffing, and my own grandparents is you have to work for the things you want in this life.
However, it’s not about the fancy trips you take, designer clothes in your closet or having the most innovative technology, it’s about the legacy you leave behind.
From his stories, I’m sure there are many parents who are grateful Dr. Griffing diagnosed their child’s leukemia in time and paved the way for them to travel to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in Memphis for treatment.
Those are the kind of goals we should have in mind.
Fame and fortune do not bring happiness.
I believe you can have all the money in the world, but if your heart is not in the right place, it is worthless.
I treasure the moments I spend with the older generation and try to learn as much as I can.
I’ve always liked to work and I like to think I learned my work ethic from witnessing the actions of my grandparents and parents.
I do recommend sitting down with a member of Griffing’s generation. Their numbers are dwindling, as are their life lessons.