Guest List
I was recently asked, “If you could invite ten people from the past to dinner, who would you invite?” As I pondered the question, the first answer was easy. But as I continued through my list, making changes as I went, I began to realize the profound impact these ten people had. This list of just ten people created a rich tapestry of individuals who profoundly impacted the world through their innovative thinking, their creative expression, and their transformative actions. So here we go…
Jesus. As a Christian, nothing I write could truly capture the impact of His teachings and His sacrifice.
Benjamin Franklin. If you ask five people what he is best known for, you’d probably get five different answers. Probably best known for his discoveries in electricity, his role in shaping the American Revolution, and his writings that continue to impart wisdom.
Albert Einstein. He revolutionized physics with his theory of relativity, challenging existing notions of space, time, and energy and inspiring generations of scientists.
Frank Lloyd Wright. A pioneer in modern architecture, his innovative designs harmonized nature and structure, redefining architectural aesthetics and principles.
Charles Schulz. Through his comic strip "Peanuts," Schulz captured the complexities of human emotions, creating timeless characters that resonate with readers of all ages.
John Wayne. An iconic actor who embodied American ideals, he influenced popular culture and portrayed steadfastness and heroism on the silver screen. (Also starred in one of my favorite movies, McLintock!)
Art Buchwald. A satirist and humorist, his witty commentary on politics and society offered insightful reflections and encouraged critical thinking.
Rumi. A 13th-century Persian poet, his verses explore themes of love, spirituality, and the human experience, fostering connections across cultures.
Miyamoto Musashi. A legendary swordsman and philosopher, his writings on strategy and self-discipline in "The Book of Five Rings" continue to influence various fields beyond martial arts.
Vincent Van Gogh. His innovative approach to art, marked by vibrant colors and emotional intensity, transformed the art world and laid the foundation for modern expressionism.
It was certainly an interesting exercise in creating this list and I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge some honorable mentions. These include: Ronald Reagan, Pablo Picasso, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and Dr. Seuss (Theodor Geisel).
Although diverse in their backgrounds these ten people continually challenged conventions, pushed boundaries, and inspired change.
