John Churchill, Duke of Marlborough defeated the French and Bavarians on August 2, 1704. Who knew? And, today, who cares? But, if you were the Duke or his British soldiers at that time, you cared a lot! If any one individual was ever the inspirations for stories of intrigue, mystery, action, or romance, it was this man. He could be the springboard for many cozy mysteries too, with a bit of tweaking here and there.
What is important to you today? And, to me? Probably, our lists would be long; yet, in 300 years, who will care? Will our words or action make a difference to anyone now or in the long run? Will we just sort of sail through the sea of life with scarcely a ripple, or will we roil the waters? Is anything important enough for us to go against the current or do we not care to make any waves? Just a thought.
It’s funny what I remember. Words someone said that might have seemed unimportant at the time, have stuck in my memory. Choices made, decisions reached by myself or by someone else have made an impact and left a lasting legacy.
Words, too, have lasting value. George Washington is one of my favorite heroes. Without his decisions, where would we be today? His words contained wisdom that doesn’t get old or out-dated. Here are just a few quotes: “Observe good faith and justice toward all nations. Cultivate peace and harmony with all.” “The Constitution is the guide which I will never abandon.” “Government is not reason; it is not eloquent; like fire, it is a dangerous servant and a fearful master.” “To be prepared for war is the most effective means of preserving peace.”
Getting back to the Duke of Marlborough, I could find only one direct quote from him preserved for these three centuries, but it tells us a lot. It pictures a man in a hurry, fresh from battle, loyal to his queen, who, without the aid of cell phone or telegraph, had to get a message to her. His method of transportation was quite different from ours too. “I have not time to say more, but to beg you will give me my duty to the Queen, and let her know her army has had a glorious victory. Monsieur Tallard and two other generals are in my coach and I am following the rest.”
Just for fun, try doing a stream of consciousness writing. For five minutes, jot down whatever thoughts you have, just as they come, without trying to put them in any logical order. It’s fun! Then, re-read. Would they make a lasting impact on somebody, or on you yourself?
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