One of the saddest phrases we can ever say is “what if?” We can become paralyzed by a fear of trying something because of the unknown but that is no way to live.
Trust your abilities, your instincts and lean on those around you that can be of support to you as you pursue your dream.
Your dream, in fact, may help someone around believe that they can accomplish their dream.
The first step toward your dream has to be your first step. Have faith, be brave and dream. Then go to work.
July 11. Deb Gordon’s Birthday. So let’s start with Happy Birthday to the woman who has been by my side for 38 and a half years.
I couldn’t have done what I did for the last 37 years without her. She has been a rock star and taught me two very important things. Today, on her day, I will share them with you and hope they help you too.
1. See The Good John Maxwell said “treat people like a 10”. In other words see the good in people and in situations. Deb has a way of doing that in a way I don’t all of the time. I’ve worked to be better at it because of her example.
2. See Both Sides Deb was always very good at helping me to see the other side of an issue. Too often I would think I had an answer to a problem or issue and she would help me to pause and consider another point of view. I know that she helped me to avoid some potential difficulties by helping me to see things a bit more clearly.
Some reading this will know Deb, some will not but we can all learn from her on her birthday. The lessons she taught me can likely help someone else reading this too.
It has been a very exciting, surreal and humbling couple of days as I officially retired.
All I have left to say is “THANK YOU”.
THANK YOU to my wife Deb. She’s put up with a lot of lonely nights while I’ve been out. She’s been a listening ear, the voice of reason and has stood by me move after move and through thick and thin.
THANK YOU to my kids. Nicole, AJ and Abby, you didn’t always have it easy with your dad as a coach and as an athletic administrator but I am so proud of you.
The experiences each of you got to have through your participation in education based athletics and activities helped to make you who you are today.
You are stronger and better because of them and I will always believe that. I am very proud of each of you and the lives that you are living. You are making a difference.
THANK YOU to all of the students, athletes, coaches, fellow teachers, administrators, custodians, cooks, bus drivers, game and event workers and all of the other support staff that I have had the pleasure of working with the past 37 years in the districts I’ve been a part of. There are so many people needed to help make events run. I may be one of those volunteers now.
THANK YOU to my collegues. I consider it a privilege to do what I’ve done teaching, coaching and being an athletic administrator. The friends I have made from across the country could only be made by being in this profession. The AD profession in particular is one of tightest and most supportive group of peers anyone could have. Truly special.
I have so many memories. So many moments that will go with me forever. I look forward to what’s next and how I can continue to help my friends and colleagues continue to make a difference.
A heartfelt, sincere and humble “THANK YOU”.
I’m always cheering for you.
(I am taking next week off from writing to relax, enjoy and gather more thoughts. Enjoy the 4th of July weekend).
Today is the day. Day 13,505. 37 years in the as a teacher, coach and administrator will draw to a close as the final out is recorded at the baseball game tonight in Jefferson.
Here are five (of many) simple lessons I’ve learned in the past 13,504 days.
1. Be as consistent as you can in your decision making.
It’s a given that not everyone will like every decision but I found that if I could strive for consistency and treating people and programs consistently I could feel good about what I was doing. Be consistent with your demeanor, your attitude and your effort too.
2. Be patient.
You don’t have to respond right away or rush into potential big decisions. It’s OK to say I don’t know yet but I will find out and get right back with you. Make sure you get back with the person though. Fake it until you make it is not a good recipe for leadership.
3. Show empathy and grace.
We all need it and we need to give more of it. I felt my leadership move to another level when I offered more grace and less judgement. I felt my personal relationships improve as well.
4. Think long term.
Not short term. Be a visionary and develop a plan to get there. The journey isn’t always easy or the path straight but it is worth it. Every step is a step closer to where you want to be. Believe in the process.
And…the biggest and best lesson I have learned and grown to appreciate.
5. Be intentional about the moments.
Cherish the moments. Don’t take them for granted and help others experience their moments too. If you can learn to do that the impact that you have on those around you will be powerful.
I am thankful for the lessons. All of them. The good lessons and the hard lessons. They have all helped me to be better.
Embrace every day, every moment. They will all add up to a wonderful life changing experience.
I have been blessed and am grateful for 13,504 days. Here’s to number 13,505 today.
Made For This Moment 