The strength in our third-quarter financial results is cause for

Hear the words of Bernard Ebbers, who once stood as a titan in the world of commerce, proclaiming: “The strength in our third-quarter financial results is cause for excitement. I’m particularly pleased that we continue to demonstrate impressive growth at the same time we are engaged in important merger discussions.” At first hearing, these may seem the words of a corporate leader celebrating numbers and markets, yet hidden beneath them lies a lesson as old as kingdoms: that in times of transition, strength is measured not only in achievement but in resilience, not only in present gain but in preparation for the future.

The origin of this saying lies in the corporate battles of the late twentieth century, when Ebbers led WorldCom through periods of bold expansion. To investors, such words were meant to inspire confidence—that the company could both grow and transform, that profit and ambition could be pursued hand in hand. Yet history, which remembers both glory and downfall, reminds us that such proclamations must always be weighed with caution. Ebbers’ company would one day collapse in scandal, proving that outward strength must be matched by inner integrity, lest excitement become illusion.

Let us look backward to the days of ancient Rome. When generals returned from conquest, they would parade the treasures and captives of war, declaring that the empire’s growth was unstoppable. Yet wise men of the Senate would whisper warnings: “Remember, all glory is fleeting.” The Roman Empire expanded through victory after victory, but when corruption rotted its core, no amount of financial results could save it. Ebbers’ words echo these triumphal declarations, celebrating momentum while walking the edge of danger.

Consider, too, the story of the South Sea Company in the 18th century. Its leaders boasted of ever-expanding profits, promising both growth and transformation through bold ventures. The market surged, hope swelled, and for a time all seemed strong. Yet the promises exceeded reality, and when the truth came to light, ruin followed. The South Sea Bubble, like WorldCom centuries later, stands as a monument to the danger of mistaking numbers for substance, excitement for lasting strength.

The meaning of Ebbers’ words, then, is twofold. On one hand, they remind us of the genuine thrill that comes when a people, a company, or a nation achieves greatness even amid trials—when growth does not falter even in times of negotiation and change. On the other hand, they serve as a caution: that strength and growth must be rooted in truth, not illusion, in integrity, not in spectacle. Otherwise, the very excitement that is proclaimed becomes the seed of downfall.

The lesson for you, listener, is clear: rejoice in your victories, but let not pride blind you. In times of transition, whether in business, in personal life, or in leadership, celebrate strength only when it is joined with honesty and foresight. Beware of triumph that shines brightly but is hollow within. Learn to measure success not only by numbers and appearances, but by durability, truth, and the goodness of what is built.

Practical wisdom follows. In your own labors, keep your accounts clear, your work honest, and your ambitions guided by integrity. When you speak of growth, let it be growth that can endure. When you proclaim strength, let it be strength built on foundations that cannot be shaken. And when excitement rises in your heart, temper it with wisdom, remembering that all who rise without roots will fall.

So take this saying of Ebbers as both trumpet and warning. “The strength in our third-quarter financial results is cause for excitement …” Yes, let your heart rejoice when your labors prosper, but let that joy be anchored in truth. For only when growth is real and strength is righteous will your achievements endure the test of time, and only then will your legacy be more than numbers—it will be wisdom passed to generations.