It’s Thanksgiving week and the time to be reflective, self-aware, humble, appreciative. So, why is this kid smiling? Why is he thankful?
He had parents who were engaged, who were firm but fair, and patterned the right behaviors for him.
He has a wife who has remained committed to him and his family during very trying times.
He has children who let him learn on the job while doing his best to be the father they needed.
He had bosses who saw something in him and allowed him to belong and become who he was meant to be.
He has lifelong friends who don’t care what he does or how much he’s paid; they stand by him because of the relationships they formed beginning in 1973 in first grade.
He’s able to teach and lead others the same way he was when he was starting his career.
He’s able to look in the rearview mirror and know that’s done his best to build a life and career that he, his parents, his wife and children can be proud of.