I came across a recent story shared at a Finding Meaning at Work seminar that media company Quartz hosted, on a conversation that JFK, had with a janitor at the NASA Space Center back in the 60’s in Houston. The story caught my attention..for those that know me, know I feel strongly about John F. Kennedy, and the consideration, value, and respect I have for him. In the early 60s President Kennedy effectively charted NASA’s course for the rest of history with his famous speech before Congress to encourage America in the space race, and send the first American to the Moon. In any event, for those that have not heard the story.
On a visit in 1962 to the Space Center to check out how operations were being held and as the approach to sending the first man in the western world inched closer- JFK noticed a Janitor and struck up a conversation, asking how he was doing? This Janitor at The Houston Space Center response alludes to very a healthy perspective to have, & insinuates a strong commitment to ones worth, & fulfillment in ones contribution. He proceeded to respond:
“Mr. President, I could not be better. WE are going to the moon.”
To most everyone, this Janitor was just cleaning the building. However, in the larger picture developing around him, the Janitor was playing his part in towards the making of History. For worse, we live in a world where riches, and notoriety are what people perceive to matter the most. We assume the people who have the most money or status are the happiest. Yet, that couldn’t be further from the truth.
As the Janitor, demonstrated everyone can be fulfilled, as long as ones importance and contribution is never downplayed, no matter how removed from ‘fame or status’. It does not matter. We all have a important part to play in the journey of life, and it just can’t be taken for granted.
SK Creates 