On my 80th birthday this month, I left the company a morning email message—as I’ve done almost every day for more than 20 years—sharing my thoughts about entering my ninth decade.
Some people have asked me if it’s a burden to come up with a morning message every day. It really isn’t, because it keeps me thinking about learnings I can share and how I can help people. And when I get a message like the one below from our associate, Sarah Caverhill, it’s all worth it.
Dear Ken,
What a wonderful morning message! Your life has given so much to the world and you still have so much to give. I am amazed at how much positive impact we create for others and how many lives we touch, directly and indirectly. Every person who participates in one of our courses impacts all the people they lead, and they in turn impact the people they touch. Such a virtuous cycle!
I believe we are put on paths for a reason and I want you to know how much I value the experience I have had with Blanchard. I have learned so much from you and you probably don’t realize that. I didn’t grow up with happy parents, although they were good people who had a strong work ethic and valued education. I do appreciate what they taught me. But happiness, joy, and celebration were not part of our household. Then God steered me onto a different path, and I came to Blanchard over 23 years ago. I had so much to learn! I can’t tell you how much your mentoring through morning messages has meant through the years. Here are some of the great things I’ve learned from you.
- I’ve learned the value of celebration. Growing up, my family didn’t celebrate much. You have helped me turn my own family into a loving, celebratory, supportive one. I actually taught my parents how to celebrate and appreciate all that life has to offer. In fact, we had a big celebration last month to honor my dad’s 90th birthday!
- I’ve learned the importance of keeping “I love you’s” up to date. After we reached adulthood my parents rarely said “I love you” to us. In fact, I can’t think of a single time from teenager-dom on. But after I joined Blanchard, I started saying it every time I talked to them. It was awkward at first because they weren’t used to it. But over time they caught on and it’s now a part of our daily conversations. I recently lost my mother and I’m so grateful that you taught me to keep my “I love you’s” up to date! I know she knew how much I loved her, and I know how much she loved me. That simple statement put a lot of joy into her later years. And nowadays my dad gets a big grin on his face whenever he sees me and tells me he loves me. WOW! Who would’ve thought?
- I also learned from you that life is a very special occasion and not to take it for granted. I focus on showing up well every day that I can! I don’t want to miss a thing and I want every moment to count. I spend time with my friends and loved ones and cherish every moment. And that includes a lot of Blanchard friends I’ve made over the years. It really is great to work with such talented, loving people.
I know there are a lot of other things, but those are my top three. So, keep on doing what you do so well. We are all blessed to be here celebrating with you, even if virtually! You will never know exactly how many lives you’ve touched because it’s impossible to count that high. Your legacy is one of love, caring, and respect for all. You should run for President!
Love to you and Margie as you celebrate,
Sarah
Thank you, Sarah. By sending me this message, you put into action another of my favorite learnings:
Catching people doing things right!