Genuine

I was fascinated the other day to learn the origin of the term, swan-song. We all know what it means; to have a final performance or round of performances from famous singers, musicians, sports people etc. to say farewell to their fans before retirement, before they depart the stage.

I was told the term swan-song comes from swans who are largely mute during their lives but sing beautifully and mournfully just before they die. How interesting and poignant that swans would do that. However on doing some research, I found out that swans do not in fact sing before they die – it is a myth, a legend. A nice story that has been passed down since the ancient Greeks. It is not genuine.

Speaking of genuine my thoughts turn to Andrew Symonds (Roy). Roy died in a single vehicle car accident in North Queensland last week – he was only 46. What a player! This guy could do anything and everything on the cricket field. He was so talented he could bat, bowl and field at the highest level. You just loved watching him play – something exciting always happened when Roy was in the action. Yet there was much more to Roy than his cricketing ability.

He was a team man first and foremost. He revelled in the mateship of the dressing room. If Roy had your back, then you could count on him absolutely. But you had to be genuine with him.

This is what Australian teammate Justin Langer shared about Roy; The great thing about him was he was the great bulls..t barometer. That’s why I loved him so much. He would pull anyone and everyone into line. Sometimes he would just look at you and that was enough.

He looked after everyone else – he was the bodyguard. He was a great stabiliser in any team because he was so real.

There has been much debate over the years as to whether Jesus was genuine. Was he who he said he was? Or was he some charlatan or misguided individual with delusions of grandeur. Or was he just a good man who over time myths and legends have grown to overinflate

We all value friends who are real. Who have our backs no matter what. Who are not afraid to tell us if we are slipping off the rails or veering off course. Who support us when we need some help. Who are genuine in their friendship and care for us.