A homeless man has just been offered many multiple jobs. In case you’ve missed it over the past few days, Ted Williams, a homeless man with an incredible, classic radio voice was made famous by youtube and has now been offered jobs by the Cleveland Cavaliers amongst others. You can see the original video that started it all here.
The days since this all spread like wildfire on the internet have been interesting to say the least. It’s been a whirlwind for Williams who got some new clothes, a hair cut, and has been on national TV. Beyond that, internet reports have brought to light his extended rap sheet and mug shots that are not very flattering. It seems that for the past ten years Ted Williams was not the most upstanding guy. Alcohol, drugs, and “some other things” got in the way.
I’m not sure how all of this is going to turn out. I’m all about second chances — and I hope Ted Williams takes advantage of his — but I’m certain this instant notoriety won’t be easy. It’s tough to be thrust into the spotlight and come out smelling like roses on the other end…no matter what your recent background happens to be.
But this blog is about creativity. Here’s where I found the creativity in this whole story: It was in the sign Ted used to ask for money out on the streets. It said: “I have a God given gift of voice. I’m an ex-radio announcer who has fallen on hard times.”
At a tough time in his life Ted Williams used his art. According to Seth Godin, “Art is a personal gift that changes the recipient.” Williams knew that his art was his voice. He knew that “in a former life” his art changed people. He longed to do it again. In order to get back to where he wanted to be he used the leverage of his art.
If you had to hold up a sign that was going to change your life for the better, what would it say? What is your God-given art that would gain attention on youtube and the internet? And don’t let me hear you say you don’t have any art. You do. And it’s art that can change people. It’s art that may even bring that long-needed change into your own life…just like it did for Ted Williams.
What would your sign say?
My sign would say, "Do you read to your child every night? If you are too busy, hire me! I will read to your child every night so that he/she will be successful in life!"
LOVE it, Michelle!!
Will Work For Art!
Allen
Sir, You are a TRUE artist!
Hmmmm….
Option A: Will Rite 4 Fee, I mean free. Well, maybe subconsciously I meant fee. I don't know. Make that: Will Rite 4 Him.
Option B: Will Eat for Food
Option C: Will Introduce You to Tom Eggebrecht for CHANGE!
Tim, you are my inspiration!
My Sign Would Read "If You Will Eat It I Can Make It"
Hire Me For Delicious Recipes.
Nancy: I can attest to that! You are a cooking ARTIST!
I've been told my sign should say something like "I can stay calm and rational when there is craziness all around me." That's being tested. 🙂
Shelley: I've seen it in action…you are indeed a calming influence. Keep it up!
My sign would be: If you are looking over or under piles, mounds or stacks of "stuff" – hire me to organize and clear your clutter.
Sherri: That is DEFINITELY your art! I should have you take a few steps over to my office so you can help me!
I know this isn't what you're looking for with this post, but your words (and the story of Mr. Williams) reminded me of the cardboard testimonies many churches have used. I'm guessing you've seen them, but in case you haven't, here's one example. I'm thinking this may be the first (or one of the first) churches to do this.
I have seen those, and I LOVE them! I actually thought of them as I was writing this post. Thanks for sharing this one…it was great to see it again…very moving!
Tom, I think my sign might say something like "I have more patience than you have anxiety…test me"
Patience is a wonderful virtue. Keep it up!
Pastor E…I think my sign would be a dry erase board because it changes everyday. I don't think God is finished with me yet. Today I think it would say…"Stop and smell the flowers appreciate all that is simple and beautiful and you will be rewarded…I can help."
I like the idea of a dry erase board. I also like your reference to "flowers"…haha! Great idea!
Life is full of conflict, conflict equals drama – I can direct it.
What a wonderfully creative sign! Yes you CAN direct it!
I love to tell THE story using words or music. Will tell to anyone who will listen. Eternal rewards.
Doesn't get much better than that!
My sign would be: "Will work for Flowers… I'll design a centerpiece for you that will make your petals fall off!!!"
That sign deserves a dozen roses!