Our Fallen Soldiers

I commend the president for his respectful tribute to our fallen soldiers, and believe senior members of his administration should be duty-bound to attend the arrival of every flag covered casket. Only then will we appreciate the true cost of our policy decisions.

Hiring Heroes

The woman looked and me and said, “Your mistake – you made eye contact!” Like a laser beam, she was headed straight for me on the tradeshow floor. Her name is Sara Trask, and unlike most of the corporate zombies one meets at a tradeshow, Sara was a breath of refreshing and energized air. It probably has a lot to do with her mission. She is the Director of Corporate Relations for Hire Heroes USA (http://www.hireheroesusa.org/). Somehow, I had not heard of this organization that started in June 2007. Its mission: “Through a personal approach, Hire Heroes USA serves as the bridge to fulfilling careers nationwide for our returning veterans from all branches of the military specializing in the career placement of those wounded or with any level of disability.” I am glad to know resources like this exist for our veterans, and happy to know there are people like Sara that approach her mission with the same zest our soldiers serve.

Did you do that on purpose?

I was feeling contemplative recently while riding a trail along the foothills in Denver when I spotted three young mule deer bucks grazing in an open area. I stopped to admire them, and they grew skittish and ran towards me to the scrub oak that would provide cover. As they ran full speed just yards in front of me, I watched how deliberate they were in their movement. I was close enough to hear their hooves against the dirt and rocks, but I was surprised I didn’t hear their breathing. How wonderfully adaptable this animal is that it can run full speed uphill without getting winded!

This got me thinking about a recent discussion I had with my students. We were talking about resonance, and making sure our time is spent aligned with our values. That is, living on purpose and persevering despite the obstacles and daily struggles. What is it that we do (or should do) where we can run uphill with effortless grace? The deer I watched operate on an instinct to survive. For all they knew, I was just as threatening as a mountain lion. Like the deer, we can run out of fear, or pursue a passion that’s fueled by a desire to make a difference. Is your daily running based on instinct, or on purpose to achieve something meaningful in the service of others?