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