When Billy Graham, who was 92 years old and suffering from Parkinson’s disease, was asked to attend a luncheon in his honor one month before his 93rd birthday in Charlotte, North Carolina, he was faced with a problem. He was first apprehensive because of his health issues, but the Charlotte leaders informed him that they wanted to honor him without anticipating a significant speech. Billy agreed to go, encouraged.
Billy Graham
Following glowing remarks about him, Dr. Graham approached the podium, turned to face the audience, and uttered:
Today, I am reminded of the brilliant physicist Albert Einstein, who Time magazine named the Man of the Century this month. Once, while Einstein was riding a train from Princeton, the conductor came down the aisle and punched each passenger’s ticket. He approached Einstein, who reached inside the pocket of his vest. Reaching into the pockets of his trousers, he was unable to locate his ticket. It was absent. He searched his briefcase but was unable to locate anything. He then glanced at the seat next to him. He was still unable to locate it.
“I know who you are, Dr. Einstein,” the conductor said. Everyone is aware of who you are. You must have purchased a ticket. Do not stress over it. Einstein gave a grateful nod. Punching tickets, the conductor proceeded down the aisle. When he turned to go to the next car, he saw the renowned physicist on his hands and knees searching for his ticket under his seat.
“Dr. Einstein, Dr. Einstein, do not fear, I know who you are; no issue,” the conductor replied as he hurried back. No ticket is required. You must have purchased one.”Young man,” Einstein responded, glancing at him, “I too know who I am.” Where I am heading is something I do not know.”
Billy Graham then went on, “Look at the suit I am wearing. The suit is brand new. According to my kids and grandkids, I have become a touch slovenly as I have aged. I used to be a little pickier. For this luncheon and another event, I went out and purchased a new outfit. Are you aware of that occasion? I am going to be buried in this suit. However, I do not want you to instantly recall the suit I am wearing when you learn that I am dead. I want you to keep this in mind:
“I am not just aware of who I am. I am also aware of my destination. I hope you have fewer problems, more blessings, and only happiness when you walk through your door. “Life without God is pointless, like an unsharpened pencil.”
May we all have lived our lives to the point that we do not have to worry about where we are going after our ticket is punched.
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