31 Days of Gratitude. Day 17.

31 Days of Gratitude. Day 17. I'm so grateful for having remarkable people in my life. People come through with gifts of all sorts, the trick is to take time to listen well and recognize what they give. I pray that I will be open to receiving the bounty that lies before me in the people I encounter. In return, I hope I too am leaving this world a better place in whatever way I can.

One of these remarkable people was "Mrs. K" who made a huge impact on me in my formative years.  "Mrs. K" as we called her was a humble and caring woman who taught me to believe in myself and to trust my instincts.  She gave me room to grow and when needed, spent time patiently guiding me until the lesson was learned.  Mostly, she led by example, never judging and always loving the real person.  Today was Mrs. K's funeral and it was a celebration of a life not only well lived, but fully spent in service to the community, and to her family and friends.  Every person who was touched by her was left better for the experience.

Thank you, Mrs. K!  I am definitely one upon whom you left your mark in your steady, quiet and loving manner.  A few years ago I was asked in a very important job interview, "What was your most important leadership training?"  Immediately, I saw Mrs. K!  I was filled with joy as we celebrated her life today in her beautiful church surrounded by the many people who loved her.  It's been a long time since I personally spent time with this dear woman, but the seeds she sowed and took root in me live on.  It was my privilege to have known her and to be among those honoring her today.  Mrs. K you will never be forgotten because of the thousands of people whose hearts and minds you enriched.