Ted Turner is still a leader. And he sets a great example. His

Maurice Strong, the statesman of the earth and architect of global environmental vision, once spoke these words with reverence: “Ted Turner is still a leader. And he sets a great example. His ability financially has been reduced, but his influence and his example still is an important asset to the whole environmental movement.” In this declaration, Strong reminds us that true greatness does not rest solely in wealth or in possessions, but in the enduring power of example, in the ability of one soul to inspire countless others long after riches fade.

The meaning of this quote lies in the separation of material wealth from spiritual leadership. Strong points to Ted Turner, once a titan of industry, who pledged vast sums for the defense of the earth. Yet even as fortune waned, his place as a leader remained unbroken. Why? Because true leadership is not measured in gold, but in influence—in the fire kindled in others to act with courage. Strong reminds us that the environmental movement does not thrive on money alone, but on vision, integrity, and the strength of those who lead by living example.

The origin of this saying rests in the collaboration between Turner and Strong, both warriors for the planet. Maurice Strong, who organized the first great UN conference on the human environment in 1972, recognized Turner’s pivotal role in carrying the banner forward in later decades. Turner gave not only money but also his voice, his name, and his reputation to awaken global awareness of climate change, conservation, and the fragile bonds of life on earth. Strong’s tribute acknowledges that even when fortunes fade, the echo of such contributions continues to shape history.

History itself illustrates this truth. Consider Marcus Aurelius, the philosopher-emperor of Rome. Though his empire’s riches flowed through his hands, it is not his wealth that endures, but his words, his Meditations, his example of wisdom and restraint in power. Like Turner, his influence stretched beyond the bounds of treasure, into the realm of the spirit, where example burns brighter than coin. Generations remembered him not for riches but for guidance, just as Turner is honored not merely for what he gave but for what he stood for.

There is something deeply emotional in Strong’s praise. He speaks not only of Turner’s deeds, but of the essence of leadership itself. Riches may dwindle, but the asset of influence is eternal. In an age when the planet trembles under the weight of exploitation, what is most needed are not merely fortunes, but examples that call others to rise, to act, to sacrifice. Strong’s words are a reminder that each of us, whether wealthy or poor, carries the power to inspire by how we live.

To future generations, this teaching is both encouragement and charge. The encouragement is this: you need not be rich to be great, nor powerful to be influential. The charge is this: live in such a way that your example strengthens others, that your actions echo beyond your lifespan. Turner’s wealth may have shrunk, but his name remains a beacon. So too may each of us, by choices small and large, become a flame that lights the way for others in the great struggle to preserve the earth.

The lesson is clear: seek not only to acquire, but to inspire. Practically, this means living with integrity, giving where you can, and aligning your life with the values you proclaim. Support the earth not only with your resources but with your time, your voice, your influence among family, friends, and community. For in the end, the treasure of money fades, but the treasure of example multiplies through generations.

Thus Maurice Strong’s words endure as a hymn of gratitude: “His influence and his example still is an important asset to the whole environmental movement.” Let all who hear them remember: wealth may crumble, but vision endures. Power may wane, but leadership of the spirit remains. And the greatest gift we may give to the world is not merely gold or fortune, but the unyielding testimony of a life lived in service to the earth.