New Perspective

Permit me if you will the chance to deviate from the usual posts about lead management, marketing and sales.  Instead, I’d like to add a little personal flavor to my posts.  I recently returned from a 15-day trip to Nigeria, Africa. Although I’ve traveled all over the world, I am not sure that I ever had a trip make an impact on me as much as this one.

About 10 years ago one of my closest friends felt called to go to Nigeria with his family and begin developing orphanages.  During those 10 years he has asked me repeatedly to come and see what they have been doing and to be part of the work there.  I finally made the decision to go with a group from our church and have come back with a new perspective.

While in Nigeria we spent each day going from orphanage to orphanage, spending time with the kids, and meeting with the staff at each one.  We saw some unbelievable sights, and met some incredible people.  I saw poverty like I have never seen, which instantly made me grateful for what I have, and less ungrateful for what I don’t have.

What I learned in those 15 days cannot be conveyed on a post, as I myself am still processing all that transpired. However,  what I can say is that I cannot wait to return. But not to the place.  More so, to the people. They were the warmest group of people I have ever had a chance to meet. In spite of having so little, they were always quick with a smile and a warm greeting.  These people have nothing (most do not have running water or electricity) yet are gracious, and thankful for what they do have.  Conversely, we have everything we could ever want yet we complain about what we don’t have.  As we approach the midway point of the summer months, I encourage you to take time to reflect on how good life is.  Be thankful. Be content. Take a break from the “race”, and stop to enjoy what you have. It may just make you smile.