Some of you close to me would know this story. Four people (A, B, C, and D) were playing a game. In this game, there are 9 sets of cards. Each set has four cards. At the end of the game, the one with the most sets win. At the end of a particular round, A had 4 sets, B had 2 sets, C had 2 sets, and D had only 1 set of cards. So in logical common sense, A won the game. But as "bored" people with nothing better to do, they decided to combine the cards B and C had. So B and C put together was now having 4 sets of cards. This would put them on par with A (who if you remember, had 4 sets of cards). Now D is given a choice which side to join. If D adds his cards to A, then he would win together with A. If he combined his cards with B and C, he would win too. What should he do?

Did you guess it? He said, "I will split my set to half so I can give 2 cards to A, and 2 cards to B and C." This caused a draw on both sides. Of course, it might seem like a ridiculous incident, but truly, does getting the most praises and the first prize mean you won? Does being a wealthy person with a smooth business make you a winner?

There are many things of greater value than the first prize, or praises people can sing to you, or having power to control people... For example, one may win a competition, but alas, he does not have friends to share his joy with. On the other hand, the one coming in 5th place got to go off for a great celebration with his friends. Also, one may be rich and in control of a good business. But has no peace in life. A poor family elsewhere makes do with what they have, and live in warmth and comfort coming from the love among them all.

Being a winner is not just about the honor one gets of being at the top. When you have realized that you will not be stressed and most probably not fall into the 'kiasu' syndrome anymore; and even better, be at peace with all men.

Well, I must admit that this is still not enough to complete the picture of being a winner. And as some may not like to hear this, I must still say that Jesus Christ is a must for one to be a true winner. For it is in Christ, that we can have peace and joy that gives us the strength to overcome many difficult times in life... :)

g r a c e
11:20 PM