Pay it Forward

Last week I had the chance to look over some old photos of Family Radio. These were pictures of volunteers, studios and equipment from the early days of 96five in the 70’s and 80’s. As I looked at these men and women, I said a little prayer of appreciation for their efforts and the legacy of what they did all those years ago. I realised we have a great radio station today because of the sacrifice of people like these.

I wondered if they ever imagined 30 years ago the type of equipment we would have today, the number of listeners we now have and importantly the large number of people who have been helped and encouraged over the years by the programs played on 96five.

They gave their time and money 30 years ago so that a family in a suburb of Brisbane today could have hope and encouragement played in their house this morning, this afternoon and tonight. They gave their time and money not so they could listen to 96five but that people in the future could be encouraged and helped. These people learnt the power of paying it forward.

They gave their time and money for someone else to be blessed. They realised that 96five existed for someone else not just them. They were blessed knowing they could help someone they would never meet. A bit like buying a cup of coffee at you local coffee shop for the next customer who comes in after you. Being able to make someone’s day.

I love that type of thinking. It is so counter cultural to today’s message of consumerism and what’s in it for me. I love the fact that today there are still people who are willing to pay it forward with their support. People who say 96five exists for my next door neighbour, the person in the car beside me stopped at the traffic lights or the family down the road doing it tough as they try and raise their family.

Thank you for learning the message of paying it forward and continuing the legacy of 96five.

Billy Diehm
[email protected]