Leadership Thought: A Trip to the Hospital and a Letter from My Granddaughter That Made Me Feel Valued

Dear Friends,

Good leaders value people and people love to be around people like that. They focus on you, are interested in you, and whenever you are around them they make you feel special and important.

One of the best ways to value people is to find ways to express your thanks and appreciation for them.

In a few minutes  I am going into the hospital  for a procedure, and on my desk I found a letter from my 12 year old granddaughter.

“Dear Poppy

I know you have surgery today and I want you to feel as much love as you give to others. The best part is that you don’t even feel the operation. Isn’t that funny?  And when you come home, we’ll celebrate. Here are some things that you are: You are brave. You are kind. You are smart. You are funny. You are passionate. And most of all… YOU GOT THIS!!!!!!!!

Love. Reese"

Did I feel valued? You bet.

It didn’t take much time for little Reese to make me feel valued.

And so, what did I do? I went out and picked the first blooming flower from my hydrangea tree and gave it to her as I thanked her for her sweet words.

Yes, when you value others, that value often boomerangs.

When you value someone there is an immediate connection between the valuer and the one being valued.

You can compound that value when you not only value someone privately, but when you value them in front of others. Privately being valued is a wonderful thing, but when you are publicly valued in front of others, that value is compounded. “You not only value me, but others know you value me as well”

Is there someone today who might be encouraged because you took the time to  value them? Your note, call, or visit will not only bless them, but it will bless you as well. Just do it! You’ll be glad you did.

Yours in faith and friendship,

Tom