A Legacy, and "New" History

Today is Martin Luther King's Birthday, and the day before we inaugurate our newest President. The first one of color. And he will inherit the most complex combination of challenges in at least half a century.

I have two quotes to offer to you that struck me as appropriate to honor both King's legacy, and O'bama's beginning in such uncertain times. It seems fitting that the second is offered as a quote from another famous American, Shirley Chisholm.

"There are some things you learn best in calm, and some in storm."

- Willa Cather

and

"Service is the rent we pay for the privelage of living on this earth."

- Shirley Chisholm

It may sometimes take great storms to cleanse, and reevaluate what really matters. We offer our very best wishes to our next President, his family, our new Vice President and cabinet, and to all the staff that contribute each day within the Executive Branch of our democracy.

We also off a heart felt thank you to those who have served in those same roles over the last 8 years. Some will be heading "home" soon, and we wish them the best as they resume life outside Washington. Travel safe.

What Matters at Year End

Welcome to the New Year.

Most years, I have found it hard to remember to write the new correct year on my checks and documents. This year, it has been no problem. I am guessing we have all been living slightly ahead, in hope and anticipation that 2009 could possibly be a little better than 2008.

Living ahead is not something I propose, in fact I work hard to stay present-focused. I was able to do that over Christmas, partly because my Mom stayed with us for a month due to an illness and health-scare resulting in the need for evaluations at our university hospital system here.
Having lost several close relatives in the recent past, and reflecting how her grave marker is the only unoccupied spot left in our family cemetary, I purposefully put aside important work to be with her, and "with" the holiday.

This was a big decision; as a small company most of the operations depend upon me. I carefully prioritized client needs, and deferred any optional meetings and deadlines. We prioritized extra special outside lighting, thanks to my daughter and her friends. We watched tv and movies on days she did not feel well. And I erred on the side of extra gifts, things that I knew would make her smile as I did not want to awaken next Christmas wishing I had been more generous.

We were blessed with good reports on three different procedures, and a diagnosis that is manageable with (very expensive) medication. Almost immediately, Mom's color and appetite improved and we were able to attend Christmas Eve church services as always. We enjoyed our traditional dinner out before services, and had a greater appreciation that she could order anything she wanted to eat. The communion and candlelight service was more meaningful and memorable for me this year. We had been blessed not only with Mom's returning health, but especially blessed to have had the opportunity to be reminded of what really matters.

So I am "digging out" of Springboard work, and enjoying it very much. It is so fulfilling to be doing work that matters to my soul. I missed seeing some friends, and delivering some gifts that I normally do. My closet did not get cleaned out for donations to Goodwill, but then, there is 2009. Things that could wait, waited. Things that really matter did not.

Blessings to all of you in this New Year of hope and promise. Janice