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After
spending last month traveling the Middle East entertaining our troops
in Iraq, Afghanistan, and four other countries, I must say I have
new appreciation for the military. I also have a new appreciation
for the comforts of home. Many of you shared the experience, following
the stories and seeing the pictures by way of my online trip journal.
Thank you all for your support!
I was so encouraged by what I saw with my own eyes- positive transformation
taking place and dedicated individuals working with a great sense
of purpose.
The commitment of the brave men and women of our armed forces is
inspiring. They work twelve hours a day in harsh conditions, enjoy
minimal comforts and are separated from their loved ones by many
thousands of miles and at least eight time zones. One man I met
in Kuwait thanked us after the performance, saying he really needed
the laughter. He had just talked with his four year old son on the
phone who had said to him, "Daddy, if you will just come home
I promise I'll be good." Unable to understand the purpose behind
his father's absence, the boy assumed it was because of his behavior.
"I cried for two days," the soldier told me.
That's
Why
So how do you stay focused on your purpose in such a trying, difficult
environment? It isn't always easy, and it requires constant reminders.
In Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, I saw one example that struck me as both
powerful and effective.
After more than thirty hours of travel, we had finally arrived at
our first military destination. By the time we cleared customs,
traveled to Manas Air Base, passed through security, secured our
equipment, and reached the briefing tent, it was about four o'clock
in the morning. We entered and immediately encountered a striking
image.
It was a framed poster in full color depicting the exact moment
the second plane struck the South Tower of the World Trade Center.
The explosion engulfed the tower and glass showered down. The North
Tower was pouring out a thick, black river of smoke. At the bottom
of the poster were two words, simply stating "That's why."
Now,
of course I had seen that image before. We all have. In fact, it
is forever etched in our memories, and seeing it again induced an
immediate flashback to where I was on September 11, 2001. I remembered
the emotions I was experiencing- a mixture of confusion, disbelief,
and anger.
The next day we saw that poster again and again- in the dining facilities,
at the work out room, and in many other public places. Two days
later when we had the opportunity to meet the Wing Commander, Colonel
Pray, I asked him about the posters. He said, "I want the troops
to see that image every day- to associate the purpose behind the
work they are doing- fighting terrorism to make sure that such an
attack never happens again." To aid that effort, the recreational
facility where we performed was called "Pete's Place,"
named after New York City's fallen Fire Chief, Peter Ganci.
This message is not intended as a political statement, but rather
a persuasive example of the power of visual images. As you contemplate
the purpose behind your work and your life, I sincerely hope you
will follow through with action and take these steps.
Time for Action
1.Gather images that remind you of your purpose. Perhaps these are
pictures of your children, of those you serve through your work
efforts, or of your future goals. Or, perhaps you will print out
your written Mission Statement, your Core Beliefs, or your Values.
Maybe the visual is something of spiritual significance to you.
Select the items that stir your emotions and reflect your purpose.
2. Post these items in a prominent place where you will see them
every day, and where others might see them also.
3. As you move through your day, take time to connect with these
reminders and remember "the big picture." Associate your
purpose in all your affairs and interactions with others. Seek opportunities
to discuss why you do what you do- why it really matters to you.
When you are connected to your purpose, the difficult missions get
easier. And, the rewards of success become much more meaningful,
as they become victories that validate your personal reality.
All the best of success,
Dan
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