What is Your Short Story?

For some reason, I love watches.

I always have. When I was a kid in a younger body--I'm still a kid inside--I took watches apart just to see what made them tick (you know, now that I think about it, this is about the only appropriate place for that idiom).

I appreciate their construction, their artistry, their precision, their utility.

My appreciation for watches makes me notice their advertisements. The one shown below for Patek Philippe is one of my favorites. It simply says,

"You never actually own a Patek Philippe. You merely take care of it for the next generation."

That's it. These brief but simple lines tell an emotionally compelling story of tradition, reliability, strength, longevity, value, pride, and heritage. Even love.

If you notice, there is not even a single direct word about features or accuracy or materials or any other physical attribute. Those things are not an important part of the short story.

Instead, there is a subtle reference to the advertising campaign's overarching theme, "Begin Your Own Tradition."

What matters in this story is that Patek Philippe watches are here for today and tomorrow. That is the short story.

Let me ask you: Do you have a short story?

Of course you do!

We all do.

And you know what? Your story is important, and if you are reading this, that means that you are still writing it.

Will your story be one dominated by physical features and material objects, or will it be one of moral character, reliability, strength, eternal values, a positive heritage, and love?

Will it be about your cars, houses, and money, or will those who recite your story recall your love for God, your integrity, your service, and the kindness you've shown to those around you?