I’ve had a circus theme this week: circus monkeys on Monday, parade elephants on Wednesday. Wrapping up the week, I realized there’s no circus without a ringmaster. And today’s quote speaks a simple truth straight up:
Be the ringmaster. It’s your life.
I googled “What does a ringmaster do?” and got some lengthy explanations, but here’s what I zeroed in on: a ringmaster focused an audience’s attention. A ringmaster directed the action.
How does that apply to you and me?
If I am the ringmaster of my life, then I focus people’s attention . . . I direct my actions … and yes, my reactions.
I know this sounds so, so self-centered. Where is God in all this?
Think about it: The ringmaster isn’t in the limelight all that long. Everything he (or she) says or does points to something or someone else. Something amazing. Spellbinding.
The Greatest Show on Earth, right?
My life, my actions … to say yes to marriage and to family and to writing … all of these focus others’ attentions not on me … but on the reason for my faith. How God has remained faithful in all seasons of my life, my marriage, my family, and as I pursue the dream of writing.
Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness (Psalm 115:1NIV)
In Your Words: Just for fun: What’s your favorite circus act? When you hear the charge to “Be the ringmaster. It’s your life.” what’s the first thing you think of — the “center ring” that you want to direct attention to?
[Tweet “Be the ringmaster. It’s your life. #lifequotes”] [Tweet “Your Part in the Greatest Show on Earth #lifequotes”]
Comments 9
I’m a terrible ringmaster, because I was schooled on the premise that drawing attention to oneself is fatal. Literally.
The fruits of my work were quite clear. That was the mission, after all.
I’m still like that. I’d far prefer that people enjoy what I write, and that they ignore the man behind the curtain.
Favorite circus act? Hard to say, as I have never been to a circus.
Author
Andrew:
Now you’ve got me thinking about the four of us going to the circus … double-date!
You’re on!
It’s seriously pouring rain outside so I will put other things aside and do some serious writing today. I also remember a year when the circus camped at the edge of our residential area had a lion escape. Here’s hoping for no escaped lions today for me or anyone else.
Author
Another adventure story … of course you have one!
🙂
I think I’ve been to a circus maybe 3 times in my life. And always I’ve focused on the high-flying acts. I love the grace and daring as they swing on those trapezes.
Author
High-flying acts … they terrify me … and yet I have to watch!
I LOVE that verse you used–it’s one of my favorites:) Great analogies today, and you’re circus week has been fun. Love me some laughter with my Truth:)
Fits right in with not my circus, not my monkeys. I’m not their ringmaster, but I am my own. I love, love, love this, Beth. I’ve thought this way for a long time, now to more often put it into action. Thank you, as always.