When you are shown grace, given a gift you can’t return, it changes you. There is something about generosity that is so beautiful, and I wish I could express it.
There is a hero of mine, a writer, a leader, and an inspiration to many. I have been following his work since the start of my career in 2003, 17 years. He has sent me an email every day, just something to make me think about something I haven’t considered. I am on the third email address that I subscribe to his daily email. He is more consistent than I.
I’ve met him a couple of times over the years. We have traded things. He has sent me many books and uniquely signed them.
There have been times where he has given me a small piece of advice or insight that has resonated so strongly that it still strikes me years later. It is like a gift that keeps giving.
I stopped by his office this afternoon, and we hang out for a bit of a chat. He introduced me to his team. He offered me tea and some chocolate, and he sent me home with a hand made memento.
He is not always available, but he made himself accessible, not because he wanted something from me just because he is generous.
He brought up a reality about parenting that was so on point that I kind of agreed and deflected it. I don’t recall what it was word for word, but it was something like kids drive you mad as a necessary step of separation. It is the only way they can become independent, stand on their own two feet.
Now, a couple of hours later, I feel a strange sense of acceptance, or maybe it is compassion to the 18-year-old in my house that has terrorizing us this past year.
I’m also reflecting on my separation process from my parents with new lenses. As brutal as that process was for me, it was a gift. I’m independent, standing on my own two feet. I’m sure there are lots to learn, but I am making it along in this world and rain or shine it’s going to be alright.
What a long strange trip it’s been.
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