The annual ‘tradition’ of the Readers Digest is back again for 2008; the most Trusted New Zealanders as voted by the general public of this country. With a few similarities to that of the list of 2007, there are some very notable exceptions. Here are my thoughts on this years list of the Most Trusted New Zealanders.
First of all, the number one spot occupied by Corporal Apiata. My initial – and current – response: fantastic! Here’s an individual catapulted into the limelight from relative obscurity for incredible feats wrought with risks in the name of duty. It is no wonder Apiata captured the nation’s #1 place; a man of that proven integrity would earn anyone’s trust, surely.
However, I am utterly confused over the overwhelming majority of the top ten spots being occupied by sportspeople, ranging from Olympians to local ‘heroes’ (McCaw comes to mind). Would anyone out there like to cure me of my scepticism and explain to me how these seven sportspeople earned the ranks of the most trusted? Sure, they worked hard and earned gold medals and sporting accolades; but then again, so have countless others in their sporting careers. Go to any suburban cricket club, and you will find an accolade list of members’ achievements.
I know of, know, and have known many people throughout my life to date. None of them have any medals, gold or otherwise. Not all have achieved tangible sporting rewards, like trophies. None of those who I presently know are celebrities of any kind. But they all have one thing in common, and it is this.
All of these people have earned my trust. Some of these people I would trust even with my own life.
None of these people are on the Most Trusted list, top ten or otherwise. But I would like someone out there to explain to me how a gold medal or a trophy earns the trust of the nation. I can see how the nation can respect and admire those in the top ten for their achievements. I indeed respect and admire them for their achievements in the name of
Any thoughts out there on this one?
