Just Because… July 2, 2009

Several times a week, my regional director sends out messages to motivate, inspire and encourage staff to stay focused as public servants trying to make a difference in the lives of Texans with disabilities.  This particular email stuck with me “just because” it had a personal touch that came from the heart.  So, I asked his permission to post it on my blog….  Quote:

Just Because

Good Afternoon,

I was talking to a friend last night about when we get older and near the end of life.  What will we be thinking about in the silence of any given day?  By this time, many of my decisions would be in the past.  This is what came to my mind…

I would like to be sitting in my boat on a nice clean lake, wearing a straw hat to protect myself from the glaring sun with Vernell next to me.  I want to tell her that I loved her and my life.  I want to talk about those lunches and dinners we shared with our family and friends – how at times we laughed so much we could hardly eat!  I want to say that I held our friend Boris’ hand as he neared the end of his life, and we were there to give comfort to his loving wife.  I want to talk about my early college basketball life and walking with her in the cool night air when we were in college.  

I want to talk about when I was younger in a job I didn’t like, and I did everything I could to either change it or find ways to appreciate the one I had.  I want to talk about the first management job I took with DRS, the awards that Unit gained and the staff that became a part of our family.   I want to say that I moved to Houston to pursue my career.  Sitting in that boat I want to say that I moved from a comfortable situation to a city where my family and I grew even happier.  I pursued each job with excellence and the clear intention to support my coworkers and the agency I worked for. I want to speak of the Houston staff that allowed me to make a difference in their lives and those citizens of Texas with disabilities. 

I want to reminisce about the troubled Units that became shining stars in the State. About the growth of RST’s and VRC’s that faced challenges, but kept striving, and are now successful and satisfied.  I want to speak of staff that were issued performance levels only to flourish at what they do each day.  I want to recall the area managers who are now looking to take my place as the regional director,  the growth in life , and the work that I shared with all of my Houston staff as I sit fishing and traveling with Vernell. 

I want to say that it was a good life with no regrets. I came to Houston to join a team and after the many years of providing the “E3 Service Essentials” I am still as happy and proud as I was back on my first day.    

In your twilight years, looking back at your life and career with DRS, what will you be able to say?  

We Can Be World Class…if YOU want it!

I am listening

Unquote…

This question made me think and reflect.  When I look back at my life, what will I be able to say.  Each day is a gift that cannot be taken for granted.  Time is precious.  There are some things in life that’s too important to overlook— family, good friends, health and wholeness.  Enjoy every moment and when the time comes to transition from this earthly life to YOUR CHOSEN PLACE IN ETERNITY, you can be confident that you lived a fulfilling life committed to helping others; just because it was the right thing to do!

Obama’s Choice August 24, 2008

The talk of the media is about the pros and cons of Barack Obama’s choice of Joe Biden as his running mate.  Everybody has an opinion, even me.  So here goes…

Whatever process the Obama campaign used to reach this decision is unknown; therefore, only speculation is bombarding the media.  It’s interesting to note that many see this choice as an admission to Obama’s inexperience and his lack of knowledge about foreign relations. 

 Every day we have to make choices.  We make decisions about everything—the smallest to the greatest.  We make some good decisions; we make some bad decisions.  However, there will always be questions raised about the decisions we make at all levels, in all arenas publicly or privately.

 

Consequently, Sen. Barack Obama’s choice raises the question of whether his message of change is now canned with a seasoned thirty-six-year politician by his side.  

 

In my opinion, I think the message of change still stands!  Why?  When have you known a presidential candidate to openly admit the truth about his weaknesses?  These days, it’s all about the truth?  Lies about any and everything will be exposed sooner or later.  So why try to cover up and pretend when the facts are there?  It’s no secret about Barack’s short time of four years in Washington, D.C.  It’s true that he’s inexperienced about foreign relations.  For Barack to choose a running mate that brings to the table the experience that he lacks is a major step in his message of change. It’s about time we have a politician, and I pray, a president that tells the truth.

 

Change has begun when a presidential candidate is open enough to choose a vice presidential candidate with strengths to compensate for his weaknesses.  Furthermore, Barack’s choice says to me that he’s secure in his identity.  He is courageous and brillant. He knew the McCain campaign would attack using Biden’s own words as they did. 

In my opinion, Barack Obama’s message of change has been implemented by his choice of Joe Biden as his running mate.  May the blessing of the Lord be upon them and their assignments; that God’s kingdom would come and His will be done in earth as it is heaven. 

 

I pray for peace, purpose, and power as we pursue God’s plan for our lives ,  America and world.

Truth is, change has come!  Amazingly, this is one step in the right direction for Americans when we all can admit our weaknesses and unite with others as a team to strengthen our nation.  When we are secure in ourselves, open about our needs, acknowledge our weaknesses, and tell the truth, we position ourselves for success and greatness.