20 years

Tomorrow I will celebrate my 20th work anniversary at the same company. As I reflect on the past 20 years the one emotion/thought that is a constant thread through my memories is a deep and profound sense of gratitude. I have had the distinct pleasure of working and meeting people from all around the world. They have been some of the most talented, generous, kind, thoughtful, intelligent, giving, hospitable people on the planet.

Since you are reading this, we are connected in some way. Whether it’s a co-worker, friend, boss, sales relationship, or other, each one of you has made an impression on me. Some more than others, but the key to know is that YOU have had an impact. I would dare to say that there are some of you who don’t even know the depth of the impact that you have had and that’s OK… You may never know the full story… And again, that’s OK. We usually don’t know the impact we have on people unless the person shares how they have been affected. This weekend I observed such a story. The person whom I was with was told about the impact she had on a younger person (was told this by the younger person) and she (person I was with) had no idea… This simple story illustrates the power we have to influence others even without intention.   

I am here to say thank you to every one of you who have come along side me in my career. I am so grateful for what I have learned about people, places, and things… There have been times over 20 years where frankly my best was just not good enough, but yours was… Thank you.  

Thank you for being on the endless conference calls. Thank you for being there during the late nights. Thank you for being there for the early meetings. Thank you for leading. Thank you for following. Thank you for teaching. Thank you for your skill sets. Thank you for your hard work. Thank you for your energy. Thank you for just being you and the unique talent that you bring.

Also, if you would allow me one more indulgence. Please think about your past. I am sure there are people in your life who have made you a better person by either teaching you something, saying a kind word, leading your team, or just being there. Would you consider reaching out and telling them?

A written note is best, but a text or email would do.