I recently came across this beautiful true story . . . and wanted to keep it close at hand, so I’m sharing it with you. I’m quoting it as I read it.
“Many years ago Charles Laughton, the famous English actor was touring America, giving Bible reading demonstrations. He was a Shakespearean actor with considerable dramatic skill. I personally never had the privilege of hearing him read the Bible, but indications were great that it was a very moving and spiritual experience.
Once, after reading in a small midwestern community in a large rural church, Laughton’s audience was totally and completely silent. It was almost as if God had made a special trip and was there among the congregation. After what seemed like an eternity but probably involved no more than a minute, an elderly man stood up and asked for permission to read the Bible. It was granted and as the old man started to read, it was apparent he was no Shakespearean actor. He did not have the voice, the elocution, or the diction of the great Charles Laughton. As he read however, it became completely obvious to everyone present that if this had been a Bible reading contest, the great actor would have finished a distant second.
When the evening was over, a reporter went to Charles Laughton and asked how he felt about having participated in such an event. What was his rection to the old man’s reading of the Bible? The English actor thought for a moment, looked at the reporter, and said, “Well I knew the script and I knew it well, but this old man knew the Author.
The point is clear and very simple. The old man had the added advantage of being totally sincere, and totally convincing because he had that deep personal belief.”
– Zig Ziglar
I do not know if this actually happened or if it’s just one of those urban legends — the kind of tale that grows into something larger than life. In fact, I’ve heard and read several versions of it. But I’ve decided it doesn’t matter.
It could be like the parables our Savior used to teach. I don’t doubt they were crafted on the spot, not to recount facts, but to reveal truth. The story Zig tells speaks of deep personal conviction – investment in the words. You could say the old man truly “understood the assignment”.
When we merely relay information, we cannot hope to move people. We only pass along data. But when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable—when we speak from the heart and share what is sacred to us — we can influence for good. We can even change our world.
If we genuinely believe that what we have to share could help someone else, might even solve a real problem, then we speak with intent. And in doing so, it ceases to be about us.
In those moments, we know more than just the script.
You could say—we know the Author.
I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Warmly,
Cindy Suelzle
May 7, 2025