A few days ago, “The Oprah Winfrey Show” completed its final episode, marking 25 years of production. The tribute that aired Monday and Tuesday of the final week was not only star-studded but was filled with a few glimpses into Oprah, the person, and the things that are important to her off-camera.

The generosity she has exhibited over the years is nothing short of historic. The lives that her shows poured into have, in turn, provided life-changing opportunity for so many others.

The cars and trips for entire audiences were impressive, and even at times hard to imagine. But what is most notable for me was her willingness to allow the money she has been blessed to acquire to pay blessings forward to someone else.

There was no prouder moment for me than to see more than 400 Morehouse College -- “The House” -- men flooding the stage, all recognizing Oprah for the gift of education that she so freely provided. Out of those gifts came doctors and lawyers, executives, professors and much more. In addition, and perhaps more important, the lesson in generosity was planted, and now these gentleman have organized a foundation to provide education to those in need, launched with $300,000 of their own money. Talk about making a difference.

In addition to the tributes offered by the show itself, many tributes have taken place all over the world. One of the most noteworthy here in Charlotte was a tribute I was honored to attend hosted by Judge Shirley Fulton at the historic Wadsworth House. As I listened to many of the invited guest share their favorite Oprah Show moments, I was in awe. The room was filled with many of the top brass in our community, each with an Oprah moment. Living legends in their own right, paying tribute to a sister legend in Oprah. Awesome!

Oprah’s efforts bring to mind Proverbs 11:25 (NIV): “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”

In that verse is no mention of money, interestingly enough. That means money does not have to be the precursor for generous contribution. Even though Oprah allowed her money to bless others, her contributions were much greater. There is a lesson in that. We each are gifted in our own special way, and I am convinced that someone is standing in the need of our contribution.

Over the years I have heard various views on Oprah. Some have raved about her shows and all that she offers her audiences; others have taken the opportunity to discredit her. But to me, it’s about recognizing the gift of another human trying to make a difference. She has done that successfully, and I am very proud of my sister.
Congratulations Oprah on 25 meaningful years.

***
Tanya Wilson is an inspirational speaker and author living in Charlotte. You can find her on Qcitymetro.com every Monday. Friend her on Facebook, or email her at tw360you@aol.com.

Got news to share with Qcity readers? Email us at editor@qcitymetro.com.
Sign up for our weekly email newsletter below

Sign up for our Weekly Email Newsletter Email: For Email Marketing you can trust

Other Ways to Share Twitter Del.icio.us MySpace

Discussions and Submission Agreement