Has-Been is Unkind
by Michael Feeley
One of the unkindest ideas and words I know is ‘Has-Been.’
It means something or someone no longer has a specific meaning or value, is outmoded, and is not significant.
I understand if a product has been improved and replaced by something better, it doesn’t mean I forget its value and ignore my gratitude for the helpful object. (I still love my CDs.)
When it comes to a person, it’s impossible for me to see anyone as a ‘has been’ and to dismiss a human being who once was respected for their skills, knowledge, and contributions. I’m not simply talking about well-known people, celebrities, or political leaders. I’m speaking about humanity at all levels of work.
Should I see President Jimmy Carter as a has-been? What about Sophia Loren, David Beckham, Gloria Steinem, Nicholas, who painted my front gate and once ran a major woodworking business, or Argentina, who raised a family and is a phenomenal housekeeper? Change and time passing don’t make these people and many others into spear carriers, minor bit part players.
You could say history is filled with has-beens – Cleopatra, Columbus, Shakespeare, Beethoven, Monet, Marie Curie, Winston Churchill, Jessie Owens, Maria Callas, Walter Cronkite, Rosa Parks, or Chita Rivera.
Let us always honor every individual and never see anyone as a has-been.
Thanks – Michael (he, him)
Please share this Daily with Your Tribes.
This is also important – You Don’t Need to Tell People.
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