24,23

I once heard my boy Bird Dog say "You either pass the torch or watch it get ripped from your hands" I’m not certain if he made that up or not but what I am completely certain of is the validity of the statement.  It seems like in all things, there is a natural progression from what has been established to be true and effective to what is now new and in demand.  That proverbial torch will be passed whether you like it or not.  There really is no point in fighting against the inevitable, at some point we all must move over for the new kid and it is up to us how we embrace that transition.  

In life there are those who seem to maintain their spot or platform much longer than others, while some come and go without even a whisper of their presence, these few make a lasting impression for all to witness and analyze.  What is the difference between the two? What makes some people leave a mark and others live and die without ever making a difference? The torch will always be passed but to whose hands? The honor of having the torch whether it be the passer or the receiver is such a great distinction. Many of us will never know the feeling of losing what we had to "the next best thing", having all that you have worked for suddenly ripped from under you in a roar of cheers and applause. Life goes on but there are only a few who reach such heights that even their fall is glorious.  

I think the difference between the torch bearers and the common folk is mindset, the vast majority of us are happy to reside in the limits of today.  To be different you have to think differently, those who reach the "torch" status are not focused on being the best today, no, their vision is to be the best ever... setting their goals so high that in failure they are revered. These special few know that to get what you've never had, you have to be willing to do what you've never done.  

The "torch" will be passed but only a few will ever know its touch.