Invite New Perspectives and Experiences

It's been an awe-inspiring month.

In my work I strive to understand the hearts and minds of my clients and their constituents. I have been humbled to support children with disabilities, struggling communities, the homeless, arts organizations, educators, animals and so many more.

This summer I am supporting the USO of North Carolina as well as the North Carolina Military Affairs Commission. I have worked with the USO of NC for more than 10 years and know that - right now - this array of clients is here to teach me something new.

I am saying "yes" to every experience they offer. My work is bringing me to interview military leaders across all armed forces divisions - we want to know where there are gaps in services and programs. And one of the targeted questions I am called to ask is, "what is it that keeps you up at night?"

Humbling.

Awe-inspiring.

Grateful.

This week, the team at Fort Bragg invited me to attend "Division Review" during Fort Bragg's All American Week.

There I witnessed the awe-inspiring display of our military based out of Fort Bragg including the 82nd Airborne Division. I watched 600 paratroopers jump into the sky, witnessed military training exercises, honored Gold Star families, heard inspiring music (chorus and band), and had opportunity to speak with our young soldiers - so competent, so brave, so ready.

I watched veterans from every war we’ve engaged in march in front of the grandstand (some standing to the side, no longer able).

These are moments that still take my breath away when I think of them.

And - I will never forget singing the national anthem with the 82nd Airborne Division standing at attention. Two Apache craft were powerfully and respectfully hovering while protecting the soldiers standing below.

Having my hand over my heart has never meant so much to me - my lens was their eyes, their voices, their respect, their strength, their love of country.

I still have a lump in my throat when I try to tell you about this. It's a moment that brought tears to my eyes.

I am seeing and hearing the hearts and minds of our military and their family members in a new way.

Thank you to the staff at the USO of NC for inviting me along - we’ve worked together for 10 years and today I learned something new....

I am humbled and grateful for unexpected moments of expansion and hope you find the same in your work, your play, and in every aspect of your life.

Wishing you safety and protection - thanks to all who serve our country with such brave and inspiring spirits.

~Kathy~

P.S. For more information on my professional services, please visit this link and/or connect with me on LinkedIn. I create momentum for positive change - I refresh systems, processes and people from the inside out. Reach out if I can help.

© Kathy Sturgis, Ph.D. Kathy is founder of Refreshment Zone and is an organizational and personal development specialist with a doctorate in communication. Contact Kathy@RefreshmentZone.com for information on Organization Development, Communication Analysis & Coaching, SWOT & Climate Surveys and/or Leadership/Life Balance Coaching.