Tuesday, January 4, 2011

Always Say Thank You

When do you say thank you?

I came home tonight so excited to pack for one of my biggest and most exciting trips of the year—the National Western Stock Show. But now I’m setting on my bed, tears streaming down my face. I just read two Facebook posts that my longtime friend and mentor Price Harrison, from the Angus News, passed away today, and all I can think, is “did I ever tell him thank you?”

Price owned and published the "Angus News" or AN, as we called it back in my PR days from Dowelltown, TN, and I don’t know that he’s ever charged a nickel for a subscription, but for a summer PR intern, it was a great place to get portfolio material, because you see Price publishes everything the PR department sends out. And, my year as an intern I went to the TN preview show, so I got to meet him in person. He was one of the nicest and kindest gentlemen I ever will know. And, I can still see him in his green sport coat setting in the stands at the North American just above the back drop with his wave and a kiss being blown down to me.

But as I think about the 11 years I sent Price Angus news for his “Angus News” I wonder, did I ever thank him for putting up with an up and coming communicator? Have I ever thanked other mentors like Evan Slack who knows my roots and never fails to mention them, when trying to sell me an ad for the National Conference or NWSS Bull Sale? These are veteran communicators who although might not have taught me the 5 W’s and H, but have taught me the people skills needed in this business.

We get so “busy, busy, busy”. And then, our mentors are gone. And we have to eulogize them, and not just reminisce with them. I have had mentors at the Association that taught me to “be kinder than necessary” and others to “always talk to a stranger, because they might be the next bull customer.” Have I thanked these men? I just can’t remember, but I know I am running out of time.

No, I don’t grieve well. Those of who have followed my blog, have probably discovered that. But writing helps, so thanks for bearing with me. I think I’ll sign off now. I have a few thank you notes to write now…

Monday, January 3, 2011

Opportunities: Make Resolutions for the New Year

Resolutions, it seems like everyone makes them in the excitement of the New Year, but six weeks into the year, and do you even know what you have resolved? I typically make some resolutions when my New Year starts on May 28; and those are easier to keep, because I’m not worried about comparing lists with everyone else (yoga, diet, excercise,etc). But since it is a new year, and the start of a new decade, I’ve decided to make a list—more like a “Bucket List” of goals to accomplish this year. And, I’m going to share it with you, my friends and readers so I’m accountable. We’ll revisit it throughout the year to see how I’m doing.

1.Take advantage of the opportunity. Whether it’s visiting a friend, touring a farm, trying something new or picking up the phone and calling an old friend, I am not going to pass by an opportunity.

2.Read daily. This might be a chapter in my Bible or my scripture study; or a book for enjoyment, but I’m going to read. I love to read, and I miss it.

3.Live by a budget. Sometimes I’m too generous and too frivolous. I’m going to start saving more, tithing more regularly and planning my donations better, rather than just giving on the spur on the moment. And I'm going to shop less.

4.Fall in love. I’ve prayed about this, and I know God has a plan for me. Jeremiah 29:11

So, those seem simple. Yes, they are few in numbers, but will still take perseverance, faith and some work. They would be simple if they were my only focus, but I still have a career I love and devote 10 plus hours to per day, volunteering and a household to run.

I’m going to take advantage of a little time to get off the computer and read and get some extra sleep. Until next time, HAPPY NEW YEAR!!