Last week, with everything going on, I missed an appointment with my CFA. Terrible of me. So very unlike me, but, so it seems, a new side of me as I let things become less structured. (I've been told I'm too scheduled and structured....letting loose, for me, means missing appointments apparently!)
And so, today was our rescheduled moment. I was determined to make sure my CFA knew that I was appreciative of her time and that I didn't mean any disrespect. I offered to pick up a coffee for her, but she politely declined.
So I arrived early and with with a tiny pot of purple flowers.
She couldn't say no to flowers, right?
Sure enough, it was something that certainly brought a smile to her face. And one to mine for bringing her a smile.
What a delightful moment. What a wonderful way to start the week.
Moments sharing a tiny bit of love to show some respect and appreciation.
Moments knowing that a small gift will bring many days of smiles ahead.
Showing posts with label respect. Show all posts
Showing posts with label respect. Show all posts
Monday, April 7, 2014
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Moments D674: 30s Dance Party & Respect
Today I had an interesting lunch with a work colleague that I very much respect. He's got 23 years on me which means he has a lot of experience to offer. When he shares, I listen.
While our work lunch started with our typical ramblings of the fate of the industry and next steps for both our companies, we found ourselves veering away from that by mid-lunch. The focus became more about age differences as he was about to head out on a date this coming weekend with a woman younger than he, and I, of course, am with a man 11 years older than me. Common ground for a very personal subject.
We discussed the challenges and interesting opportunities that an age difference can bring. Everything from expanding one's perspective to misunderstandings based on those unique perspectives. It was a fantastic conversation and when I arrived back into the office, it was followed up with another brief moment of age differences.
This song came on the radio and Chica came walking into the office. Fourteen years my younger, she suddenly broke out into a dance. In the middle of the office. Rocking away. It was a 30s dance party. It brought a smile and a laugh to everyone in the office. A perfect breather after a couple of stressful days.
And that's when it all snapped into place. Respect. It's ageless. It can show up in the form of a deep philosophical discussion, or it can show up in a moment of living life large.
Moments enjoying differences of ages.
Moments appreciating that respect can be ageless.
While our work lunch started with our typical ramblings of the fate of the industry and next steps for both our companies, we found ourselves veering away from that by mid-lunch. The focus became more about age differences as he was about to head out on a date this coming weekend with a woman younger than he, and I, of course, am with a man 11 years older than me. Common ground for a very personal subject.
We discussed the challenges and interesting opportunities that an age difference can bring. Everything from expanding one's perspective to misunderstandings based on those unique perspectives. It was a fantastic conversation and when I arrived back into the office, it was followed up with another brief moment of age differences.
This song came on the radio and Chica came walking into the office. Fourteen years my younger, she suddenly broke out into a dance. In the middle of the office. Rocking away. It was a 30s dance party. It brought a smile and a laugh to everyone in the office. A perfect breather after a couple of stressful days.
And that's when it all snapped into place. Respect. It's ageless. It can show up in the form of a deep philosophical discussion, or it can show up in a moment of living life large.
Moments enjoying differences of ages.
Moments appreciating that respect can be ageless.
Monday, January 6, 2014
Moments D623: Tunnel Rats
Today my love whisked me away for an after work surprise. I had no idea where we were headed, but we were late and we sped off quickly to get there. And after a lovely 15 minute motorcycle ride, we arrived at the Perris Indoor Skydiving Tunnel. Uh oh. I was going indoor skydiving.
Not knowing what to expect, I was nervous. I'm always nervous trying something new, and this time, I was completely out of my realm and fully in EQ's world. The last thing I wanted to do was embarrass EQ in front of his colleagues and friends.
No pressure, right?
I had 6 minutes in the tunnel. Not all together! Gosh no. That would be insane! My moments were broken up into 1 minute increments, so I was in the tunnel 6 times for 60 seconds each time.
What was immediately noticeable was how much could be learned in 60 seconds. Incredible really. Not only for myself, but for the other two students that were working in the tunnel. By the time I was in my third round, I was getting the hang of it. By the fourth time I was flying on my own and for the fifth and sixth times, my coach was flying with me and spinning me around. EQ even joined us for a second or for for a mid-air kiss. Too much fun.
As I waited in between my turns, I watched the others learn their flying skills. At the end of our tunnel time, our tunnel coach enjoyed the final moments in the tunnel and showed us her expertise. WOW. Incredible.
I can see how people would become "tunnel rats" and enjoy as much time in the wind tunnel as they could. I love every second that I was in there!
Not only did I learn something new today, but I also found myself respecting the sport of skydiving a whole lot more.
Here's hoping I wasn't embarrassing to my love!
Moments enjoying a surprise.
Moments appreciating the finer details of a new sport.
Not knowing what to expect, I was nervous. I'm always nervous trying something new, and this time, I was completely out of my realm and fully in EQ's world. The last thing I wanted to do was embarrass EQ in front of his colleagues and friends.
No pressure, right?
I had 6 minutes in the tunnel. Not all together! Gosh no. That would be insane! My moments were broken up into 1 minute increments, so I was in the tunnel 6 times for 60 seconds each time.
What was immediately noticeable was how much could be learned in 60 seconds. Incredible really. Not only for myself, but for the other two students that were working in the tunnel. By the time I was in my third round, I was getting the hang of it. By the fourth time I was flying on my own and for the fifth and sixth times, my coach was flying with me and spinning me around. EQ even joined us for a second or for for a mid-air kiss. Too much fun.
As I waited in between my turns, I watched the others learn their flying skills. At the end of our tunnel time, our tunnel coach enjoyed the final moments in the tunnel and showed us her expertise. WOW. Incredible.
I can see how people would become "tunnel rats" and enjoy as much time in the wind tunnel as they could. I love every second that I was in there!
Not only did I learn something new today, but I also found myself respecting the sport of skydiving a whole lot more.
Here's hoping I wasn't embarrassing to my love!
Moments enjoying a surprise.
Moments appreciating the finer details of a new sport.
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Moments D310: Respect and understanding
Today’s moment seemed to bombard me as I had many instances of it occur.
A moment where a friend asked me to have their needs respected and they followed up with thanks for understanding.
Another moment where another’s needs were not being met and where I may not have necessarily understood what those needs were.
A moment with two in my circle that took the time to understand my needs and not only respect my boundaries but work with me in them.
And then, the pièce de résistance my two cute kitties finally found a place of respect and understanding today. As I type this, Ma-Ku, the baby, is curled up on my chest. Nimue is curled up right beside me. Together they purr in unison.
A reminder that respect is a give and take. A flow of energy if you will.
A reminder that it’s important to take time to understand the needs of those around you.
A moment where a friend asked me to have their needs respected and they followed up with thanks for understanding.
Another moment where another’s needs were not being met and where I may not have necessarily understood what those needs were.
A moment with two in my circle that took the time to understand my needs and not only respect my boundaries but work with me in them.
And then, the pièce de résistance my two cute kitties finally found a place of respect and understanding today. As I type this, Ma-Ku, the baby, is curled up on my chest. Nimue is curled up right beside me. Together they purr in unison.
A reminder that respect is a give and take. A flow of energy if you will.
A reminder that it’s important to take time to understand the needs of those around you.
Friday, June 1, 2012
Moments - D37; Proud Papas
A co-worker today shared this email with me about his daughter's recent promotion. It's beautifully written and brought tears of joy to my eyes. I will share the email exchange in its entirety, though I have changed the names for privacy.
From: Mr. B
Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2012 10:42 AM
To: JP
Subject: FW: Want to be successful? Ask yourself, What Would Kylie Do?
From: Mr. B
Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2012 10:42 AM
To: JP
Subject: FW: Want to be successful? Ask yourself, What Would Kylie Do?
Thanks JP. I’m so proud of her. I hope she one day becomes as smart and as good at what she does as you.
From: Daughter of Mr. B
Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2012 10:33 AM
Subject: FW: Want to be successful? Ask yourself, What Would Kylie Do?
It’s official.
From: Kylie's Boss
Sent: May-31-12 10:27 AM
Subject: Want to be successful? Ask yourself, What Would Kylie Do?
I am happy to announce that Kylie has been promoted to CEO and Chair of the Board effective immediately.
In her time at XXXXX, Kylie has proven to be the most extraordinary human on the face of the planet. Since I started wearing my “What Would Kylie Do?” bracelet I’ve become a better person. You should all wear them. Kylie is my hero.
And for those who have seen her in action, you know that negotiation is the most impressive of Kylie’s amazing skills. (In retrospect, I now regret agreeing to negotiate the content of this note and getting talked into letting Kylie write the first two paragraphs of this email.) Needless to say, the unique skill set and industry knowledge Kylie brings to XXXXX has raised the reputation of our company.
Kylie started at XXXXX as our very first events person and quickly proved her mettle with CT and their hockey program. It was at the NHL Heritage Classic in Calgary in February 2011 where we first saw Kylie in total lockdown mode for an entire week. To visualize this mode, image a hungry lion that has a zebra in its sights. It sees nothing else. It knows exactly what it wants to do. It will not stop until it kills and eats its bloodied prey. That’s Kylie in lockdown mode. If that image grosses you out, imagine a kitten chasing a ball of string. That’s Kylie, too. Either way, you want Kylie in your corner.
And she has been in the corner for some big events – many store launches and classic car road shows, but also for Mark’s and Amex events. She also was a driving force for XXXXX’s Big Day last August, from concept to execution. As we’ve all learned just how amazing Kylie is, the more her role has grown, including to help win new business such as additional projects with ZZZZZZZ. Kylie is never short on ideas, and sells her ideas driven by a sincere desire to create the best events.
And for the record, Kylie really can negotiate down any price and talk people into things they never wanted to do. But people also love working with Kylie, and deeply trust her. I mean, I could have sworn we promoted her to Account Supervisor, Events. But if Kylie says she’s CEO and Chair, then in must be true.
Congratulations your majesty.
BOSS MAN
To: Mr. B
OMG Mr. B.
First of all your compliments make me glow!
Secondly, *I* am so happy for Kylie. It sounds like she is an incredible woman and someone that is appreciated and highly respected by those she works with. In some regard, I’m a wee bit jealous. I long for a day when I am part of a team that works so cohesively and respectfully.
And finally, Mr. B, YOU are an incredible man. You had much to do with Kylie’s personality and drive for success. I only know a slice of you from the work world and that man is pretty damn impressive. I can only imagine that the whole you is ever more so. So be a “bursting-with-pride” papa. You deserve it.
Thank you for sharing such a personal, important moment in your life. It brings tears to my eyes as my heart fills with the shared joy!
From: Daughter of Mr. B
Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2012 10:33 AM
Subject: FW: Want to be successful? Ask yourself, What Would Kylie Do?
It’s official.
From: Kylie's Boss
Sent: May-31-12 10:27 AM
Subject: Want to be successful? Ask yourself, What Would Kylie Do?
I am happy to announce that Kylie has been promoted to CEO and Chair of the Board effective immediately.
In her time at XXXXX, Kylie has proven to be the most extraordinary human on the face of the planet. Since I started wearing my “What Would Kylie Do?” bracelet I’ve become a better person. You should all wear them. Kylie is my hero.
And for those who have seen her in action, you know that negotiation is the most impressive of Kylie’s amazing skills. (In retrospect, I now regret agreeing to negotiate the content of this note and getting talked into letting Kylie write the first two paragraphs of this email.) Needless to say, the unique skill set and industry knowledge Kylie brings to XXXXX has raised the reputation of our company.
Kylie started at XXXXX as our very first events person and quickly proved her mettle with CT and their hockey program. It was at the NHL Heritage Classic in Calgary in February 2011 where we first saw Kylie in total lockdown mode for an entire week. To visualize this mode, image a hungry lion that has a zebra in its sights. It sees nothing else. It knows exactly what it wants to do. It will not stop until it kills and eats its bloodied prey. That’s Kylie in lockdown mode. If that image grosses you out, imagine a kitten chasing a ball of string. That’s Kylie, too. Either way, you want Kylie in your corner.
And she has been in the corner for some big events – many store launches and classic car road shows, but also for Mark’s and Amex events. She also was a driving force for XXXXX’s Big Day last August, from concept to execution. As we’ve all learned just how amazing Kylie is, the more her role has grown, including to help win new business such as additional projects with ZZZZZZZ. Kylie is never short on ideas, and sells her ideas driven by a sincere desire to create the best events.
And for the record, Kylie really can negotiate down any price and talk people into things they never wanted to do. But people also love working with Kylie, and deeply trust her. I mean, I could have sworn we promoted her to Account Supervisor, Events. But if Kylie says she’s CEO and Chair, then in must be true.
Congratulations your majesty.
BOSS MAN
From: JP
Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2012 10:50 AMTo: Mr. B
OMG Mr. B.
First of all your compliments make me glow!
Secondly, *I* am so happy for Kylie. It sounds like she is an incredible woman and someone that is appreciated and highly respected by those she works with. In some regard, I’m a wee bit jealous. I long for a day when I am part of a team that works so cohesively and respectfully.
And finally, Mr. B, YOU are an incredible man. You had much to do with Kylie’s personality and drive for success. I only know a slice of you from the work world and that man is pretty damn impressive. I can only imagine that the whole you is ever more so. So be a “bursting-with-pride” papa. You deserve it.
Thank you for sharing such a personal, important moment in your life. It brings tears to my eyes as my heart fills with the shared joy!
From: Mr. B
Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2012 10:52 AM
To: JP
Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2012 10:52 AM
To: JP
Jen, 30 feet away my eyes, like yours, are filled with tears. You are too generous.
Yes - this is my very special moment today.
Actually, I was quite fortunate today. I had quite a few special moments today. From missing a speeding ticket, to winning a baseball game where I caught the last ball for the out, to revisiting old moments to reveal new smiles.
BUT - none of those special moments trump this moment proud papa. I was so happy to have been included in the joyful moment.
These are the moments that define us as people. Nothing else matters. Just the people around you. (IMHO)
Moments should be shared and celebrated.
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