conspicuouscandor

Re-posting this 2013 piece in honor and remembrance of my dear and great friend, Algie.  Al’s wife called me Saturday evening to share that, after a long and hard-fought battle for his health, he went home on Friday.  There’s no doubt in my mind where Al is today – among the angels, where he so belongs.  I will forever be grateful for my friend and mentor, Al.  And I will miss his random voicemails reminding me of what’s truly important – though I’m grateful to have discovered a couple that I managed to save.  God bless you, Brother.  Rest well and well done.  Everyone needs an Al.  Everyone should be someone’s Al.  Algie Jones, CWO…indeed.

I remember it as if it was just yesterday, yet it was January 19, 2004 – just over nine years ago.

Fredericksburg, VA – I was “the new guy from the Home Office” – there to do what needed to be done to turn around the business and earn the company its “expected return” on the investment made.  The investment of course, was based solely on spreadsheets, financial statements, and a balance sheet – with no conscious awareness of the greatest assets there.

I spent the first couple of hours walking around on the main floor – meeting and greeting the physicians, nurses, and other team members.  There were about 72 of them – perhaps I met most that morning.

Around 08:45, I was upstairs unpacking in what would be my “temporary-but-for-a-while” office.  I had my favorite coffee cup in my hand when a determined knock was made on my partially-open door.

I looked up to see Algie – or “Al” as most called him.  With a serious look and piercing eyes he inquired, “Boss Man, got a minute?”

I invited him in…”Al, right?”  I remembered him as our lead housekeeper – we’d met briefly downstairs.  “What can I do for you, Al?”

He paused for a moment and then, with a bit of a nothing-to-lose perspective, took a deep breath and said, “Look, Boss.  I just wanna know about you and what kind of person you are.  I gotta know who we’re dealin’ with so I can decide if I’m gonna stay and work for you.  If this is just another steppin’ stone for you shirt-n-tie kind of guys, just tell me.  I’ve had two or three jobs most of my life – I have two full-time jobs now!”

Before I could interject, he went on…”There are a lotta good people here, Man.  They work hard, but their spirits are broken.  Nobody’s straight with ’em – they know this place is broken, but they don’t know what to fix ’cause nobody talks to ’em.  So, what about you?  You gonna fix this?”

I was stunned.  And I appreciated his boldness.  Then he said it…”This is your ministry, Man.  Are you up for it?”

Still holding my coffee cup – perhaps tighter than ever – I asked if he’d join me for a cup.  This conversation needed more time and attention.  Al quickly informed me that it wasn’t time for a break, but I convinced him that we could have a cup of coffee together while we worked through his questions.

Al and I spent about the next hour together.  He wanted to know about my family, my interests outside of work, and what was important to me.  He asked me if I attended church and wanted to know about my relationship with God.  Al was peelin’ back the onion – determined to learn about me at my very core.

I guess I passed the test, as Al finally told me “Ok, then…I guess you’re alright.”  And he smiled.  I asked him if that meant he was staying and he replied “Yeah, I am – for now.”  So, we agreed that he would stick around at least through the week…maybe longer, if he liked what he saw.

That afternoon, we had a meeting with the entire staff.  We laid it out – the good, the bad, and the opportunity.  We made it clear that the business was at risk.

From that day forward, Al was a great resource.  We talked just about daily – about family, life in general, and perhaps what was going on with this team member or that one.

I’d bounce ideas and strategies off of him and he’d give me one of three responses – 1)  Yeah, that’d be alright – go for it; or 2) No, don’t do that!; or 3)  Gimme a day or so and I’ll get back to you.  And he would.

I knew what Al was doing.  He was runnin’ traps with other members of the team – gauging their reaction to things like adding hours to create growth capacity.  Then he’d come back and give me “his” feedback.  Throughout it all, Al would remind me “Hey, Brother – I’m just a janitor.”

Our unique partnership worked magically.  Granted, there were other managers imortant to the team’s success, however, the key element to our collective gain was Al’s insight and ability to bring people together.  Our swingman was “just a janitor.”  Indeed.

The team gelled.  We gained momentum.  People took ownership of quality and service.  “Owners” stepped up, while “renters” rose to the occasion and bought in – or left.  Either way was fine.

We became profitable in 90 days.

Ten months later, our team cleaned house at the annual company conference.  I proudly returned to share their awards with them.  The same team that struggled 10 months prior and was losing $100k – $150k per month received the top awards for patient satisfaction, physician satisfaction, and EBDITA improvement.  Unprecedented success.

Before I moved on to manage other opportunities in our expanding region, we adjusted our organizational chart a bit.  A new leadership role was added:  “Algie Jones, CWO.”  As in, “Chief Wisdom Officer.”

Even after I left my short-term assignment at that facility, Al and I remained friends.  If I went back to Fredericksburg for a partnerhip meeting, I’d try to carve out some time to sit and chat with Al – always a way to bring perspective back in-line.  Occasionally, I’d call him while doing some windshield time.  Whenever we talked, he always asked about my family and reminded me “take care of your people.”  So true.

It’s 9+ years later and I still talk to Al, though not quite as often.  He’s enjoying a well-earned retirement with his bride of many years.  He’s a deacon in his church and has a brigade of grandchildren in and around the area.  And, while he’s aging and has had his share of challenges, he’s as optimistic and upbeat as ever.  I never come away from a conversation with Algie with less than a smile.  And a “God bless you, Brother.”

Al taught me a number of valuable lessons.  The importance of transparency of management.  The value of input from all levels of the organization.   Tasks and titles do not define the person or their value.

Algie Jones, CWO.  “Just a janitor?”  Hardly.

Keep it Lit, Y’all.

T.

Feb 9, 1825 – the US House of Representatives breaks an Electoral College tie by voting John Quincy Adams President of the United States.

Feb 9, 1895 – William Morgan invents volleyball.

Feb 9, 1900 – The Davis Cup is established.

Feb 9, 1943 – the end of the Battle of Guadalcanal.

Feb 9, 1964 – the Beatles appear on The Ed Sullivan Show before a tv audience of 73M.

Feb 9, 1965 – the first US troops are sent into South Vietnam.

Feb 9, 1969 – the first test flight of the Boeing 747.

Feb 9, 1971 – the Sylmar Earthquake hits the San Fernando Valley area of California.

Feb 9, 1971 – Satchel Paige is first Negro League player voted into Baseball Hall of Fame.

Feb 9, 1975 – the Soviet Soyuz 17 spacecraft returns to Earth.

Feb 9, 1989 – Boy meets girl during a rare visit to the high school library.  Random meeting turns into a rather extended conversation.  A phone number is given.  A call made; a date secured – dinner at Spinnaker’s, followed by a movie (yes, “Working Girl” – her choice, for sure).  A couple of proms, two high school graduations, a myriad of college formals and other festive celebrations follow.  Then two college graduations and, shortly thereafter, a wonderful wedding.  Careers…grad school for both – one in the classroom, the other in a Best Supporting role…the blessing of a child…advancements…transfers…now four states, five homes, and almost 18 years married.  A God-filled home.  Blessings in abundance…beyond any reasonable measure.  Awe-struck then…and still today.

A moment in time can change your life forever.  Live wide awake. 

Pay attention.

Listen to the whisper.

Remember the moments that count.

Peace,

T.

We assume a great deal of titles in this life.  Consider that, in my own life, I’ve been called “son…student…center fielder…bagger…squad leader…specialist…executive director…administrator…chairman…vice president…friend…brother…and husband.”  I’m sure there are others I’m forgetting.  But the most important and, truly the only one worthy of capitalization in my opinion, is the best title ever:  “Dad.”

I think of occupational titles as validation, in some form, of something we have done in the past.  We typically gain new and fancier titles when we have proven our value to the organization in our prior role.  

Perhaps becoming a Dad is more of a nomination to step up to a grand future command performance – rather than a validation of one’s past.  It’s God’s invitation to excel as a man.

J. Mark Fox wrote of each man’s family role as being in the context of “Four P’s” – the Prophet, Priest, Protector, and Provider.  A Prophet who hears God’s word and subsequently shares and teaches it to others (his children).  A Priest who goes before his people (family) on behalf of God and goes before God on behalf of his family as their leader.  A Protector to guard against false doctrine, bad companions, and bad choices.  And a Provider to feed physical and emotional needs, while preparing and providing for their future.

Future?  Yes.  Legacy.

During a recent discussion, my bride observed that “we choose our own legacy.”  So true.

I may not agree entirely with all that Fox writes, but I do agree that the “Four P’s” are fundamentally applicable and evident of our true responsibilities in our capacity as “Dad.”

All too often, though, Dads become easily confused.  In an effort to be a good Provider, perhaps it’s fairly simple to self-impose a mischaracterized identity established on an occupational axis, rather than regarding the priority of the other three “P’s” and our obligation to be at our best as “Dad.”  It’s not easy, yet who said anything worthy is easy?

Yet, I’ve known men of great occupational success who have missed the point.  In fact, it’s evident to me that even the most scholarly can sometimes fail miserably in life’s most important exam. 

I’ve also known men who have passed with flying colors – in both arenas.  A successful logistics executive who missed not one softball game, show choir concert, or academic honors ceremony.  And there was a man named Fred – honestly, I don’t recall a single clue as to what he did for money, but I can tell you he left behind three kids who themselves became great human beings – great parents themselves who are focused and engaged.

Notice that Law didn’t call out any obligation to be a “Pleaser.”  Sometimes it’s just not about personal happiness, but more about redirecting “I want…” to a clearly and directly articulated “Yes, but you need and, therefore, you will…”  We should be so cautious as to recognize that sometimes betting on happiness today is a bet against tomorrow.  After all, being “spoiled” refers to something that has occurred in the past – not now.

Two great songs about fatherhood are “Cats in the Cradle” by Harry Chapin and “Just Fishin'” by Trace Adkins.  Consider their opposing stories:

My child arrived just the other day
He came to the world in the usual way
But there were planes to catch and bills to pay
He learned to walk while I was away
And he was talkin’ ‘fore I knew it, and as he grew
He’d say “I’m gonna be like you dad
You know I’m gonna be like you”

I’m lost in her there holdin’ that pink rod and reel
She’s doin’ almost everything but sittin’ still
Talkin’ ’bout her ballet shoes and training wheels
And her kittens
And she thinks we’re just fishin’

And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man on the moon
When you comin’ home dad?
I don’t know when, but we’ll get together then son
You know we’ll have a good time then

I say, “Daddy loves you, baby” one more time
She says, “I know. I think I got a bite.”
And all this laughin’, cryin, smilin’ dyin’ here inside’s
What I call, livin’

My son turned ten just the other day
He said, “Thanks for the ball, Dad, come on let’s play
Can you teach me to throw”, I said “Not today
I got a lot to do”, he said, “That’s ok”
And he walked away but his smile never dimmed
And said, “I’m gonna be like him, yeah
You know I’m gonna be like him”

And she thinks we’re just fishin’ on the riverside
Throwin’ back what we could fry
Drownin’ worms and killin’ time
Nothin’ too ambitious
She ain’t even thinkin’ ’bout
What’s really goin’ on right now
But I guarantee this memory’s a big’in
And she thinks we’re just fishin’

And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man on the moon
When you comin’ home son?
I don’t know when, but we’ll get together then son
You know we’ll have a good time then

She’s already pretty, like her mama is
Gonna drive the boys all crazy
Give her daddy fits
And I better do this every chance I get
‘Cause time is tickin’
(Yeah it is)

Well, he came home from college just the other day
So much like a man I just had to say
“Son, I’m proud of you, can you sit for a while?”
He shook his head and said with a smile
“What I’d really like, Dad, is to borrow the car keys
See you later, can I have them please?”

And she thinks we’re just fishin’ on the riverside
Throwin’ back what we could fry
Drownin’ worms and killin’ time
Nothin’ too ambitious
She ain’t even thinkin’ ’bout
What’s really goin’ on right now
But I guarantee this memory’s a big’in
And she thinks we’re just fishin’

And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man on the moon
When you comin’ home son?
I don’t know when, but we’ll get together then son
You know we’ll have a good time then

She ain’t even thinkin’ ’bout
What’s really goin’ on right now
But I guarantee this memory’s a big’in
And she thinks we’re just fishin’
Yeah, aww, she thinks we’re just fishin’
We ain’t only fishin’
(This ain’t about fishin’)

I’ve long since retired, my son’s moved away
I called him up just the other day
I said, “I’d like to see you if you don’t mind”
He said, “I’d love to, Dad, if I can find the time
You see my new job’s a hassle and kids have the flu
But it’s sure nice talking to you, Dad
It’s been sure nice talking to you”

And as I hung up the phone it occurred to me
He’d grown up just like me
My boy was just like me

And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man on the moon
When you comin’ home son?
I don’t know when, but we’ll get together then son
You know we’ll have a good time then

(this ain’t about fishin’…)

I’ve long believed that parents earn their place in the future of their children.  Dads, how will you be regarded and remembered?  What will be your dash?

So, Dads…step UP.  If you’re interested in improving the world around us, start at home:

Raise accountable, Christian kids who know you and know Him. 

Pray for them and with them.  Get up and take them to Sunday School. 

Teach right versus wrong and bend not to whatever the heck those people down the street are doing. 

Teach them to exert their best effort and to make good choices.  And if the world judges their best effort to be “average” – well, that’s absolutely fine.  “Average” wrapped in strength of character and perched upon a solid foundation of Christian values and beliefs will endure whatever storm comes ’round.  Let the wind blow.

Make your home a place where hate-filled video games and other meaningless dribble simply aren’t welcome – it’s far less likely that anyone will rage against society after watching Smile of a Child. 

Ensure that your occupational execution is squarely focused on your role as Provider to those who call you “Dad” – you are here to feed them, not your own ego – and don’t apologize for stepping away from the office to attend something at school or some other opportunity to be there and be Dad.

It’s not easy.  I find that it takes a heckuva lot of work and focus – and sometimes I simply fail.  But consciousness begets improvement and so, Brothers, let’s hold each other accountable.  It takes, I think, a bit of a Nike perspective – “Just Do It.”

“We have a number of difficulties facing our nation, but I believe fatherlessness is right at the top of the list…There is no substitute for a full-time Dad.  Dads who are fully engaged with their kids overwhelmingly tend to produce children who believe in themselves and live full lives.” 
  – Tony Dungy – coach, super bowl champion, future nfl hall of fame inductee, & DAD

In Proverbs 22:6, Solomon wrote, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it.”

Hug ’em often…and Keep It Lit…

T.

So, I saw the Lincoln movie last weekend.  Great film…extraordinary.  And for those of you who know me well, you know that the last docudrama I saw in a full-blown cinema was “Ghandi” in 1982 – and, while Ben Kingsley won for “Best Actor” and the Academy ultimately deemed the flick to be “Best Picture,” I, in my wisdom of then only 11 years, deemed it to have “sucked.”

In keeping with our family tradition, our 11 year-old joined us at “Lincoln.” I think she understands me now when I talk about seeing Ghandi at about the same age.

And, while the lead actors were all fantastic, I’ve thought a lot about one of the “extras” – a friend from Richmond who had the good fortune of stepping onto the set to be an orderly in Spielberg’s latest masterpiece.

If you’ve seen the movie, you’ll recall him.  He’s the guy pushing the wheelbarrow full of body parts as Lincoln arrives at the military hospital.

If you haven’t seen the movie, it’s not quite as grizzly as it sounds.  But it was a very effective and wisely inserted reminder of the reality of war.

The scene itself underscores the cost of the war and the importance of a leader’s struggles.  And while the movie could have been made without that scene, perhaps its value as a body of work would have been diminished.  I think so.

While there is no Academy Award for “Best Supporting Extra”, it’s fair to reason that every film worthy of “Best Picture” has had one.  Or many.

…

As we were enjoying a farewell gathering in Richmond last year, a friend reminded me of our interaction with the “shoeshine guy” at a hotel during one of our business trips together.  He was recalling a rather lengthy conversation I had with the “shoeshine guy” – and marveling at the question as to which of us, given the chance, could outsell the other – me, or the “shoeshine guy.”  It was a healthy banter.

I reminded him that our highly polished shoes were important to the next day’s “mission” – we were to be front and center with senior leadership and, of course the hue of our shoe leather would determine their confidence in our strategies.  Right?

Um.  No.

The fact is, the shoeshine was an added benefit.  The primary commodity of that $10 transaction was the pep-talk that came with the shine.  Yet the pep-talk wasn’t directed to me.

Wise beyond his years and more educated in real life than any self-proclaimed scholarly “expert”, the “shoeshine guy” kept it real.  Over the years, he’d held and polished the feet of many – politicians, business leaders, country music legends, and the average Joe – hearing their stories and offering his own unsolicited counsel.

During our fondly recalled visit, there was nothing really special about our conversation – except for one observation.  Just as I was sitting down for a quick pre-dinner shine, a well-dressed man emerged with a pair of shoes to be shined, explaining that “the Governor” was upstairs and needed them in short order.  Without missing a beat, the “shoeshine guy” instructed the gentleman to “set ’em aside…it’ll be the Gov’nors turn next.  I take ’em as they come and treat ’em all alike.  Besides…I didn’t vote for him.”  Fantastic.

The lesson of the shoeshine stuck with us the next day in our meetings…and beyond.  The shine was of no importance to our “leading actors”, yet vastly important to ourselves.  If nothing else, it was an important rite of preparation for our supporting roles in a boardroom exercise, yet hardly worthy of recognition.

Sometimes it’s really quite healthy to be reminded that, to some we are in leading roles, while to many we are simply extras.

And so, how well do we remember those who have pushed the wheelbarrow for us?

Here’s to all of the “Best Extras” who support our most extraordinary performances in whatever we do.

Many weekday mornings, I’m in the office fairly early – usually before 07:00.  The typical exception is an early flight to one of the many areas of the country where I’m fortunate to have work with great team members. 

This Thursday was an unusual treat, though, as I had a chance to visit Peanut’s school to participate in their morning convocation and their honoring of Peanut and others who worked hard to achieve Dean’s List and Head’s List academic status in the first semester of the 2012-13 school year.

I thought we were there to recognize academic accomplishments.  I was quickly reminded that, while a secondary purpose of our gathering, I was primarily mistaken.

The auditorium was filled with about four hundred middle school students – grades five through seven.  A refreshingly abundant gathering of proud and supporting parents filled the back rows and the balcony.

I was struck by how incredibly quickly a hush fell over the students and they came to order as the Dean led us in the Pledge of Allegiance.  There was no announcement or call to order – simply, when he stood, faced the flag, and placed his hand upon his heart, the students all seemed to know that this was a time of honor and what was expected of each of them.

As we recited the pledge, I was reminded of doing the same in my elementary school days.  I remembered standing in the second row from the right side of Mrs. Daly’s second grade class at Maybeurry Elementary School, reciting the pledge every morning after Mr. Mitchell greeted us over the public address system.   Those of you old enough to recall the daily pledge in public schools will recall the scene…a small flag on a wooden dowel stuck into a metal bracket at the top of the chalkboard – you know…the chalkboard with the laminated, green banner with white, cursive upper and lower case letters of the ABCs taped across the top of the board and just under the base of the flag.  Anyway…

Just after we recited the pledge on Thursday, a young lady – one of the students – stood to read a poem about faith and hope, followed by a brief passage of scripture.  She then called the assembly to join her in prayer. 

I’ll admit it…while she led the prayer, I peeked.  Sorry, but it’s a pretty awesome sight to see four hundred middle school kids hushed in prayerful silence with bowed heads at barely 07:45 in the morning. 

We spent the balance of our time together receiving the daily announcements and then…finally…celebrating the academic leaders of the first semester.  It’s a great moment to hear your child’s name called out in recognition of their hard work – and even better to see them stand, turn, and smile with pride and appreciation for the celebration of their accomplishments.  Their accomplishments are significant and not to be overlooked, as they are representative of determination, commitment, and effort over time – a degree of focus not always easily achieved and sustained at such a young age.

Yet, as I think about it, the truly great accomplishment is that four hundred children come together daily to start their day with the Pledge of Allegiance and to offer their prayers and to ask Him to guide them throughout the coming day.  That’s cool.

As I climbed into my truck to head into my own duties of the day, it occurred to me that the importance of the morning’s gathering was well beyond an assembly to recognize academic accomplishment.  Rather, the importance was to assemble, acknowledge, and affirm that we are “one nation, under God…indivisible…” and that we give praise and thanks as we know that we are and have all through Him.

And so, yet again, I wonder about the possibilities.  It strikes me that starting each day with our pledge of loyalty and unity and underscoring it with a concerted effort to pray for our loved ones, those around us, our country, and the world at large is not something that has to stop when adulthood is achieved chronologically.  While in this life, we may strive to graduate from our academic studies, but we are at our best when we continue our post-graduate studies in our faith as Christians.

Even in the busiest of times…those days when we arrive in the office before 07:00 or board an exceptionally early flight…many of us still seem to find the time to make it through the line at Starbucks or complete some other ritual of self-reward.  And while a three-pump-vanilla-extra-hot-soy-2-Splenda-no-whip-whizbang-double-latte-whatever (double-cupped with a stopper, of course) may kick our day into gear with a sip and a smile, what if we all stop, consider, contemplate, and pray for a moment – for how we will conduct ourselves, how we will respond to the challenges of the day, and how we will shine a bit of His light into the world and the lives of those around us throughout the course of the day ahead?

Perhaps the caffeine isn’t really what we need to improve our consciousness.

What can the day hold if started with a Pledge and a Prayer?

God bless,

T.

“The retro art of expressing thanks or congratulations or regret with a handwritten note is the sure way to secure another’s attention.”
           – Mitch Thrower (author, entrepreneur, and 22x Ironman triathlete)

I’ve been spending a lot of time lately thinking about how we do or don’t communicate. 

Email bugs me.  It’s too easy to ignore, too easy to pass the buck, and if we really get down to it, most of it isn’t meaningful.

Texting isn’t much better.

And phone calls…they seem to be going by the wayside as an entirely new generation emerges with an unapologetic bias toward answering texts and emails, but not the ringing of the phone.  (Perhaps their various ringtones get confusing after a while…)

Whatever happened to the handwritten note?

Interestingly, I stumbled across some recent discussion in the media about handwritten notes.  The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and others have been running a few OpEd pieces about the value of the handwritten note, but I think they’re missing the point.  Sure, there’s certainly value in writing a handwritten note as a follow-up to a job interview.  But job interviews are about work – not life.  What about the really important stuff?

The point is, the real value in handwritten notes is not what they can do for you – rather, what they can do for others.  Unlike email, they’re special.  They’re unique.  They last.  They’re easy to hold onto and cherish.  And they’re personal.  And the reality is that they really don’t take that much longer to write than a text or email.

In any given day, I probably get 50-100 emails…maybe more.  I don’t really bother to count them.  It takes enough time to identify and answer the important ones, while deleting the others. 

I can promise you this, though…if the mail arrives with what appears to be a “real” letter or note, I read it first.

And I keep them.  In fact, I have a sock drawer full of treasures.  Most of them are keepsake cards and notes from my bride and our princess, but a number of them are from others, too.

Notes of thanks or encouragement from co-workers.  A handful of notes from my closest friends.  Birthday and holiday cards from my parents and in-laws.  A special note from a buddy with a copy of the eulogy he delivered for one of our pals who departed far too early.  A picture of a team member’s infant child and the thank you sent to all who reached out to them after their loss.  Yep, this stuff is about life – the really important stuff.

I try to keep a ready stock of good note paper and/or cards on hand at home and at the office…just to be sure I don’t have an excuse not to write when the thought crosses my mind.  And, when the opportunity presents, I try to stop for a moment to jot down a quick, personal note to someone – usually to thank them for lending a hand with a particular challenge, to encourage them as they struggle with one of life’s hurdles, or just to say hi.

Actually writing isn’t the hard part.  In fact, it’s quite easy.  I find the hardest part to be breaking the routine.  It’s easy to bang out a quick email while “multi-tasking” – talking to someone in the room, “participating” in a conference call, etc. 

A note takes focus, thought, and reflection.  Hence, it becomes more meaningful.

As we think about ways to improve the world around us, I think we need to reconsider the handwritten note.  Don’t overlook its potential.  Give it a shot – buy some nice notecards, pick up your best pen, and commit a random act of kindness.  Send ’em something for their sock drawer.

Keep it lit, Y’all…

T.

In his 1985 solo debut album, Sting sang of the “Russians” and the looming threat of the Cold War and its assured destruction.  Interestingly, some of the very same lyrics apply to today’s Russia…

“In Europe and America, there’s a growing feeling of hysteria
Conditioned to respond to all the threats
In the rhetorical speeches of the Soviets
Mr. Krushchev said we will bury you
I don’t subscribe to this point of view
It would be such an ignorant thing to do
If the Russians love their children too…

…We share the same biology
Regardless of ideology
What might save us, me, and you
Is if the Russians love their children too.”

The haunting underscore of the reflective lyrics is a classical piece by Russian composer Sergei Prokofiev.  For me, it illicits images of a Russian cityscape cast in gray and where blue skies and sunshine are as rare as a smile.

While the missle crises have been averted and Mr. Gorbachev has long since answered the call to tear down the wall, a new crisis looms. 

In late December, Russian President Vladimir Putin called for a ban on any further adoption of Russian children by American parents.  Shortly thereafter, the Russian parliament signed into law new prohibitions that prevent Americans from providing any further opportunities to Russian children seeking a loving home.

Putin’s antics are rooted in his cowardly efforts to retaliate against the Magnitsky Act – a piece of legisltation passed by the U.S. Congress and signed by President Obama in mid-December.  The Act restricts the travel and financial activities of persons identified as having abused human rights in Russia.

Putin may be a warrior in his own mind, but it is the weakest of the playground bullies who stand behind a protective shield comprised of innocent children in need.

Children are not pawns on a chessboard, rather, they are a gift with which we have been entrusted.  To manipulate them as human, political shields only confirms that Russia remains in the hands of small-minded bullies who walk within reach of their oppressive roots. 

I am preoccupied with thoughts of those children and adults who have met each other and patiently anticipated a time when they can be together as a family – only now to be told that they’ve been torn apart, presumably for good, by selfish and vile politicos with hardened, cold hearts. 

If not each other, who will love and be loved?

According to Wikipedia, about 650,000 Russian children are in orphanages today.  At the age of 16, they are dispatched to the streets where 40% remain  homeless, 20% turn to crime, and 10% commit suicide. 

The Russians have transformed their orphans into hostages.  In an already uncertain existence where their odds of success in redeeming a full life are severely handicapped with seemingly insurmountable challenges, Putin and his cronies have dealt them a handful of marked cards.

My hope is that our leaders in Washington will find the appropriate way to stand up to Russia and demand that children be allowed to be – well, children.  If so compelled, I hope you will join me in writing to our leaders and demanding their attention to this crisis.  Make some noise.

And, while I am consciously aware that our own elected representatives don’t always demonstrate the best that we have to offer, I do believe that both sides of the aisle stand together for most issues of basic humanity.  As for those who choose to find political excuses to turn the other cheek and ignore these matters, I remind them of Dante Alighieri’s observation that “the darkest places in hell are reserved for those who maintain their neutrality in times of moral crisis.”

“…We share the same biology
Regardless of ideology
What might save us, me, and you
Is if the Russians love their children too.”

Unfortunately, the song remains the same.

God bless,

T.

Hey, thanks for stoppin’ in.  I hope you’ll take a few minutes to look over what I’ve posted so far.

If you like it, please click on “follow” and sign up to receive my next posts.  You’ll get an e-mail when I’ve added something new.

Comments are welcome – and appreciated!  Please chime in.

If you’ve found your way here, you’re important to me.  Let me know what’s on your mind.  Feel free to invite friends to tag along, too…

Peace,

T.

“Turn the page, continue reading, and let the next story begin…”
           – Suzanne Weyn – “Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium”

Quick trip.  Airports.  Pleasantly cheerful TSA.  New Year’s Eve.

Friends gathering.  Food and beverages ready.  Anticipation.

Surprise!  A dear friend’s birthday.  Hugs and laughter…it’s all good.

Young, younger, and youngest – all gathered to celebrate.  Old friends.  New friends.  Precious children.

Stories told.  Memories re-lived.  New memories created.  Smiles.  Tears.  Good times.

The ball drops.  Hugs, cheers, horns, hats, and toasts.

Pondering. 
Reflecting. 
Taking it all in. 
This is the good stuff. 
Beyond our wildest dreams.  Who would have guessed? 
God is so good.

Rose Parade.  Gathered for a meal.  Prayers.  Hopes for 2013.
A young’un’s pledge – “to work on my character this year.”
Goodbye hugs.  Smiles and waves.

Airports.  TSA.  Quiet, bumpy flight…dozing and holding hands. 

Home with family.

2012 – the page has turned.  A new chapter – 2013 – so far, looking really good.

New Year’s 2013.  Memories made.  Anticipation of what lies ahead.

Cheers, y’all.

Keep it LIT.

T.

Five minutes of the daily news is enough to make anyone a bit cynical and jaded.  Newtown, CT.  Webster, NY.  Pakistan.  Fiscal cliffs.  Plunging markets.  Unemployment. 

“Where?” we ask.  “Where is the good news?”

I had the opportunity to hear a sermon today about “Passing the Torch.”  It was a very well-delivered and timely message – in short, it’s up to us to seize our opportunity to invest in others and shine God’s light into the world around us.  Today and every day.  It’s not too late.

By now, many have heard of the “26 Acts” groundswell of kindness initiated by journalist Ann Curry shortly after the Newtown tragedy.  Yet another demonstration of the power of social media, “26 Acts” became an almost instant movement across America.  And, while the significance of the kindness and generosity shown by various people in the context of their own “26 Acts” should not be overlooked, one may ask – why stop at 26?

As we anticipate the start of 2013, we have an opportunity to choose to make it a truly “new” year – or, just another year. 

I’m not talking about resolutions.  I was happy to hear the pastor say today that we shouldn’t even contemplate resolutions – I agree with him.  Typically, they don’t work.  I read somewhere that 97% of New Year resolutions fail within 30 days.  Personally, I don’t think that the resolutions fail, rather, the will of the one resolved wavers in its own human imperfection.

So, in the midst of the “bad news” and cynicism, I submit that the good news is the Good News.  And it’s up to us to do the reporting.  Spread the Word.

I’m thinking of all of the opportunities that surround us in the course of our daily travels and the conduct of our personal business within our own myopic sphere of existence.  If we simply look around and pay attention, the chances to incorporate our own “Acts” are right there in front of us.  With open eyes and the will to invest ourselves a bit, we can be the news.

I’m thinking of the homeless person standing on the corner in Cool Springs selling copies of The Contributor to passing motorists – in the midst of a well-healed suburb and within the line of sight of America’s highest performing Lowe’s and fifth-highest performing Starbucks.  How hard is it to put down the $4 latte at the stoplight, roll down the window, and make simple investments of $1 and a warm smile in the journey of a fellow brother or sister in Christ who stands there before us clearly in a moment of need?  Share the light.

I’m thinking of dear friends who have lost loved ones – in some cases, far too early.  The funerals are over and the gatherings of family and friends have disbanded, yet those left behind are in their darkest days of mourning.  A phone call, a text message, an email, or perhaps a handwritten note can make a world of difference for them for days – yet, they take only mere seconds to minutes of our own investment to generate.  Shine the light.

I’m thinking of the children of third world countries such as young Maria, our Compassion child in Ecuador.  While we relax in the security and comfort of our homes and enjoy the abundance of blessings on our tables, these children want for the basic necessities of life.  Modest monthly contributions can make the difference for these children by ensuring that they have food, clothing, and the support necessary to provide them with an education and access to a journey of Christian learning and discovery.  Taking it one step further, a simple note once a month gives them affirmation that the world can be a kind place and that there is love.  Shine the light.

I’m thinking of the strangers we all pass in our daily travels.  Do we make eye contact?  If so, do we smile?  I’m reminded of our friend Lindsey and her fifth lesson – that smile may be the only happiness they encounter in the course of their day.  Shine the light.

I’m thinking of those who stay warm tonight by a fire built with wood split, stacked, and provided by the High Octane Christian Men in Midlothian, Virginia.  And I’m thinking of those who remain cold.  Shine the light.

I’m thinking of the homeless children in the public school system who come each day for an education, two free meals, and a brief respite from the ugliness of the street.  And I’m reminded of good people like Larry and Nancy who spend each day making it count as they do their part to bring meals, shelter, smiles, and hugs to the forgotten many.  Shine the light.

And so, the opportunities to Act are clearly so endless and generally quite convenient.  It’s up to us to find and highlight the Good News everywhere.

1 John 3:17 – But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?

Romans 15:1 – We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.

2 Corinthians 8:9 – For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.

Galatians 6:2 – Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

One of my frustrations is that we are generally a fickle people who are easily distracted by the “now.”  It’s no wonder, given that we are immersed in a culture of “now” – iPhones, email, text messages, and the like.  And so, when the next “ big story” emerges, will we remember to shine the light?

Friends, I submit to you that there is truly only one “big story” and it is one of sacrifice and unconditional love.  Indeed, the Good News.

And so, I question whether we need to resolve to anything other than developing a more pronounced habit of sharing kindness as God wants and expects us to do.  And while the symbolism of “26 Acts” for the victims of Newtown is stirring and significant, I further submit that the real opportunity is somewhere around 5 Billion.  Yes, 5 Billion – the roughly 71% of the world that doesn’t know the Good News. 

Ok, so maybe it isn’t realistic to expect that we can cover all 5 Billion individually.  Perhaps. 

But, I suspect we can do better than just 26 each.  Whatever the number for you – whether 12, 24, 52, or 365 Acts in 2013 – I suspect that whatever you resolve to do will be deeply appreciated by those who are embodied in the warmth of His light as a result of your resolve to Act.  Likewise, He will be pleased.

Finally, I choose to believe that we worry more about the definite imperfection of our resolve in 2013 than He does.  It’s sure to happen – try as we may, we are humans – imperfect beings – and we will surely hit a bump or two along our journey, as we always do.  It’s okay.  It’s only when we let those bumps completely de-rail our resolve and interrupt our journey to help others that all is lost.  So, when we stumble, may we regain our stride.  The goal is not to complete the resolution for our own victory or benefit, rather, it is to enhance our habits so that our victory and benefit is found in bringing the Good News to those we are fortunate to encounter.

I hope the year ahead is filled with blessings and opportunities for us all.

Shine the light.  Keep it lit.

Peace,

T.