This week families across the USA gather to celebrate Thanksgiving. It means many different things to different people. As one of my clients shared when I asked about his plans, “lots of food, too much to drink, and too much football.” (Sounds like my kind of gathering, but I digress).
The spirit of this holiday is to pause and reflect. More importantly, it’s a time to offer thanks for the many blessings in life, whether material, emotional, or spiritual.
Thanking Leaders from the Past
I was reminded this past week there is another kind of thanks we seldom share. A good friend and fellow coach whom I’ve known for decades was telling me how she recently wrote a blog citing mentors and leaders she has known. The central theme was a note of gratitude to those former bosses for being great leaders; senior managers who inspired and motivated their following.
Hearing my friend share this poignant idea, I was convicted that I have not done enough to say thanks to those who have guided me. I’ve been blessed with some amazing people who have come into my life at various stages, investing time and energy to share their views and experience. The collective wisdom has helped me make better choices along the way. It has shaped my values and principles.
As I think through my list, the reality is that many, not all, of those I count as great inspirations, have passed away. Their legacy remains with me, but I no longer have the chance to say thank you to all of them personally.
I’m going to list the names but won’t go into detail about their impact. Simply stated, I thank you, one and all for spending the time you spent to help a young man. So in no particular order:
- Jack Whitaker
- George Jared
- Tim Balter
- MSG Jimmy Howard
- Col. Hal Gaines
- J. Wayne Stark
- Col. Gaither Bray
- LTC Jap Champion
- Everett Gambrell
- Dr. John Bisagno
- Gene Elliott
- Harriet Wasserstrum
- Lane Sloan
- Mary Kole
- Dick Hendee
- Mel Maltz
- Dr. John Lockhart
Thank you for being who you are and doing what you do. You didn’t have to do it, but you did/do.
Who In Your Life?
Take a moment and think about those in your life who made the commitment to mentor. If you can contact them, do so. Spend a minute to give back.
Use the lessons they gave to continue your leadership growth toward the ability to make a difference. They did. Why shouldn’t you? It’s your turn to be a stepping stone for someone.
