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Today marks a pivotal moment of my leadership project: the first day of the BCFP Capstone Seminar. As I sit on the plane, approximately 30,000 feet in the air, I feel called to reflect on my leadership journey. It was four months ago that I experienced the Metanoia which drove the creation of my leadership project. At the time, I called on my Servant leader mentors for guidance. In the spirit of ImagineCreateServe, I would like to take the time to thank those who have been critical to this journey over the last four months and throughout my Servant leadership journey over the past two years of Graduate School.

For my husband JJ. You bring purpose to my life. Thank you for loving me unconditionally and for always making me smile. You’re my best friend and my favorite person.

For my mother Lorraine. You have always encouraged me to remain inquisitive. Thank you for inspiring me to understand the beauty and complexity in the world. You are always right and it only took me 28 years to realize that.

For my father Harry. You are the embodiment of Servant leadership. Thank you for listening to my heart, for encouraging me to be bold, and for showing me what Grace means. You are my inspiration.

For my sister Sarah. Your energy is contagious. Thank you for always making me laugh and encouraging me to remain passionate. I hope I can be a wonderful mother like you one day.

For my beautiful nephew and niece  Harrison and Kennedy. You are the light of the world. Thank you for reminding me to play. I’ll love you forever.

For Marley. You showed me that love has no limits and that all creatures are worthy of love. You bring joy to my life each and every day.

For my friends. You have each play an integral part in my Servant leadership journey. I love you wholeheartedly and will continue to no matter what path our lives decide to take.

For Abbey. Your integrity inspires me each day. Your ability to listen empathetically and congruence with your values is something I look up to. I am truly grateful to call you a Servant leader mentor.

For Kevin. Thank you for challenging me to stand up for myself. You encourage me to draw out the best in myself and others. Working with you on the development of the Capstone Seminar has validated that this is my life’s work. I am truly grateful to call you my Servant leader mentor.

For MaryAnne. You mean more to me than I’ve made known. Our conversations are intellectually stimulating and effortless. I look forward to maintaining our friendship for years to come.

For the BCFP. You are why I wake up and come to work each day. Thank you for inspiring me to strive to be the best version of myself each day. You are the Servant leaders of tomorrow.

For all my colleagues. I am truly blessed to work with such a smart, caring, and passionate team. Thank you for inspiring me to continuously improve myself and others. You each bring something unique and passionate to the team. I’m grateful to know you.

Food For Thought:

1. For what are you grateful for?
2. For whom are you grateful for?
3. Why is gratitude an essential component of Servant leadership?