In 1620, a group of religious separatists struck out from England, set on crossing the Atlantic Ocean in an effort to establish a new community where they would be free to worship and live as they wished. It was a courageous move.
But thanks to the compassion, care and coaching of the local Wampanoag people, half of the original group of Pilgrims survived the first year and were able to coax a good harvest from ground around their newly-established village at Plymouth, Mass. They were on their way to achieving their goal.
What did this courageous group of survivors do, once they had the chance? They paused to say “thank you.”
The idea of gratitude was woven into cultural fabric of both the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag. The two communities joined together for a time of feasting and celebration, and to express thanks for survival, for the currently plenty, and for future provision.
Gratitude is woven into the fabric of every good leader, too. No leader gets to where they want to go without the compassion, care and coaching of others. Good leaders pause regularly along the way to say “thank you.”
In remembrance of that earlier celebration of gratitude shared by the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag, November has become a season of gratitude.
With that in mind, I want to pause today and express gratitude. I am grateful for:
– My team. When I set out to re-tool my long-running leadership TV program, I knew I would need a team of seasoned, talented professionals to help me achieve my vision, and I’m grateful they have joined me in this journey.
– My guests. I’ve had the privilege of interviewing an incredible roster of inspiring individuals. The courage and character they have revealed as they shared stories of their defining moments has inspired me, and our viewers and listeners. I’m grateful to play a part in sharing their stories.
– My viewers and listeners. I’m grateful to all of those who engage with the leadership profiles I share, whether through the podcast, broadcast TV or social media. Thank you for listening. I hope you are as inspired as I am, and I’d love to hear from you.
