Those we know and love

This morning while reading Creating Your Own Destiny, by Patrick Snow, he discussed the importance of remembering those who molded you.  This is such an important lesson and one which has in many ways shaped my life.  Fathers from the Boy Scouts, my Sergeants in the Air Force, and leaders and friends in my personal/professional life.  I never take for granted that without these people, I would not be who I am today.

One of the most influential people in my life was Sergeant Eaton from the Air Force.  It was at a pivotal moment in my life, when I could have gone down many different paths that he took me under his wing.  This man taught me the importance of taking the good with the bad, my role as a leader in standing up for my team, and what the Air Force core values really mean (Integrity, Service Before Self, Excellence in all you do).

One specific instance stands out in my mind as it was so practical and relevant to myself and so many other people I have spoken to.  While in the Air Force I had a sergeant who just seemed to have it out for me.  This person made my life a living hell with absurd job duties, an inability to be pleased, and a general lack of effective communication skills.  I would go home at night and rant about this person, complain, get angry and frustrated… it was starting to take a toll on me in a serious way.  Then one day, while speaking with Sgt. Eaton, I mentioned my frustrations and he simply and calmly told me to take the good with the bad.  I had no idea what he was talking about, but since trusted him, I asked that he explain what he meant.  He said that in life we will be continually faced with situations both good and bad and that the real measure of a man is in how he reacts.  He further explained that if you allow them to, you can learn from both good and bad leaders; from good leaders learning how you will lead and from bad managers how you will not lead.

I have always carried this lesson with me.  That when faced with adversity, don’t get bogged down with frustration, rise above it.  This is one of many life lessons that the people in my life have taught me.  I always keep myself open to meet new people and open my heart to learn the lessons they have to teach.  In addition, I always do my best to help others overcome their frustrations and turn a problem into an opportunity.