Impressed and Proud of what?

Today our son Austin was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. Less than 1% of all college grads are selected. Its' members include 7 US presidents, 7 of the 9 members of the Supreme Court, and many college professors and even Nobel prize winners. My son did not seem that impressed. I was a very proud dad. I did not get an invitation into PBK myself. Probably the criteria about excelling in higher mathematics kept me out. I was impressed and looked forward to being seen with this scholar and seer of wisdom. I was so proud and inflated. He was not.

I always wanted our children to graduate from college and exceed their old man's GPA and list of honors. Now both of them have done this and so much more. So, what impresses my son? What is he proud of?

I have observed that he is impressed by people who serve and humbly give of themselves. As we drove through Athens he pointed out a man who was walking with a middle school student. Austin is a youth ministry intern at their church. He was impressed that this man takes time to mentor youth in his city. He was obviously proud to be associated with people like him.

Once again the child taught his dad an important lesson and made me proud of him again. Jesus taught us that those who humble themselves will be exalted. I am so thankful tonight my children learned this and practice it. That is more important than any golden key chain or stole of honors.