The Applause of One

"The person who seeks all their applause from outside has their happiness in another's keeping." ~Dale Carnegie

Last week was the end of the school year, complete with elementary awards assemblies and field day. A time to honor those who have achieved great things and celebrate their accomplishments.

But not everyone got a certificate. Not everyone is gifted with artistic or athletic abilities. What about those who went home empty handed?

What about me? I'll be the first in line to admit that I like being recognized for a job well done. I'll also admit that I've (sometimes) gone out of my way and turned myself inside out striving to gain that moment of fame ... only to hide my tears when another's name was called and slink home in misery. Ouch. The truth hurts.

However, like today's quote points out, there is a danger in pinning my hopes for happiness on things I cannot control -- like the opinions of others.

What if, instead, I simply did my best with the gifts I've been given? What if the applause I sought after was to look at myself in the mirror at the end of the day and know I gave it 100%? What if I lived to hear, "Well done, good and faithful servant?"

If I never heard the accolades of others, would the applause of One be enough?

What about you? What applause have you received? Have you pursued the applause from outside more than the applause of One?