I think it is fitting as the Olympics begin and the stock market is stumbling to consider best in class. During the Great Depression the United States abandoned the system where the value of our currency was defined by gold. Gold is still valuable and I am sure Fort Knox is still well guarded. We will all enjoy watching as the world’s best athletes compete and excel.
It is no accident that the best in the world hone their skills through hard work and dedication. For three weeks the Olympics makes the 1971 Coca Cola commercial seems possible. Indeed, “I would like to Teach the World to Sing”. Hum along – even if you can’t do that in perfect harmony – recall some of the lyrics.
“I’d like to see the world for once
All standing hand in hand
And hear them echo through the hills
For peace throughout the land.”
I think I liked the polar bear version of the song the best. I wish our own country could focus on what unites us!
I had a chance to visit another best in class person this week. I am still involved with the Andrus Center- we are currently working to fully endow a chair in Cecil’s name at BSU. In the process we had coffee with Winston Moore. He does not crave the spotlight but he is an amazing entrepreneur, sportsman, philanthropist and an excellent human being. He knew Cecil well and told us a few hunting memories as well as business related stories. You may know that Cecil seldom forgot a name or a face and that skill was top of mind for Winston. The examples set by Winston, Cecil, Jack Simplot, the Albertson Family, Ted Ellis, and so many other Idahoan’s set the standard and earn them a Gold medal in my book.
I would put Warren Buffett in the gold standard category. Warren reminds us that “Price is what you pay. Value is what you get.” Warren has proven giving his fortune for the good of mankind is his “value”. Hank tells me that Batman and Kai (Ninjago) are his heroes because, “they always fight evil.”
Enjoy the chase for the gold. M