There has been a lot of interest in the links to information about Jeremy Johnson, Mr Venuti’s financial partner who was served with an indictment for $500 million in fraud by the FTC on December 21st 2010.
I do not know Mr Johnson personally.
Let us as a community have compassion for those named in the charges and their families. We all make stupid mistakes. If the charges are true then justice will have to be served.
The extent of the collateral damage will depend on our ability as a community to reach out in support of those who by choice or mere association find themselves a part of these unfortunate circumstances.
What can we each learn personally to avoid the lure of get rich quick schemes, “easy” and “free”. Every hook needs a fish, you and I have to open our mouths and take the bait. Remember the Show Me Rule! Ask the guy on the phone …. if its free and easy except for 3 easy payments then you want a free and easy 30 day trial. Then you will decide if your going to give him your credit card number.
I know of another similar situation that occurred in our community a few years ago. Many people lost money but only one person was willing to testify in court. This resulted in this person being sent to a Federal prison in Colorado for several years. The “Show Me Rule” would have exposed this person much earlier.
Why would you ever give your credit card number to a complete stranger? Would you give your credit card to a stranger in the parking lot at Walmart? Who tells you to stand there for 10 minutes and he will be right back with a 52 inch flat screen TV for only $29.99.
The media must also share some responsibility for the way in which it magnifies the persona and image of such individuals. Millionaires seeking the stage and giving them stage are two different things. The media hypes and perpetuates the myth that image, appearance and money are a reflection of the soul. That God has blessed them with wealth because they are good, honest and moral. That myth then underpins the legitimacy of that person’s business dealings which too often are exposed to be far less than what it appeared to be on the surface.
The Widows Mite
There are thousands in our community, rotary clubs, churches, schools, clubs, youth groups, individuals and neighbors who unselfishly serve others locally and around the world. Most of this service is given quietly and without public recognition and even anonymously. Why, because true service and its rewards are issues of the heart. No stories or pictures in the papers are required. The thank you’s, hugs, smiles and happy faces are rewards enough. Most are not millionaires. These are the true unsung heroes in our community. Serving simply because its the right thing to do.
Face to Face
What would I say to Mr Johnson if I met him face to face. I would say, I have done some very stupid things in my life and this is what I have learned for what ever its worth:
- Jesus loves you
- Never forget that because tough times are ahead and he will sustain you if you let him
- You are young and I assume have young children to raise
- You can do much good in the world
- Face this trial with integrity and tell the truth
- Help others learn how to avoid such pit falls
- We have a common heritage and I consider you to be my brother
- I may not like what you have been accused of doing but it is not my place to judge you
- Love and Charity will always prevail
St George Airport the Rest of the Story 