Well…perhaps my vision of the service aspect of my project was a little ambitious. Unlike those of God’s children who are suffering each day and available for us to help, helping grieving children and families is a little more indirect (at least what I’m trying to do). The challenge I have had is that there are individuals involved that have schedules…and, often times their schedules are dictated by those who sign their checks. Anyway, through several phone calls, meetings and emails, I do have some GOOD traction on providing publicity for Children’s Grief. Rather than beat myself up over reaching the finish line with my service project prior to the end of my Sabbatical, I realize this will continue to be an ongoing project. And, I’m very excited for the seeds I’ve planted and the potential to work with MN Bound and Due North outdoors. This dedicated time I’ve had has really provided me with an opportunity to learn more about how to navigate through the media industry and I’m confident we’ll get there some day.
Last week I mentioned that I was going on a fishing trip with my dad…and, we went. We traveled to and fished Devils Lake in North Dakota and the ‘Devil’ definitely wasn’t there. It’s amazing how when you embrace the fact that God wants us to be happy and to enjoy each other, the devil is nowhere to be found, isn’t it? Simple concept but incredibly powerful. It was simply amazing for a couple of reasons. First, the fishing was very good which generally isn’t the case. However, us fishermen keep going in hopes we’ll have a trip like the one I enjoyed last week with my Dad. Second, I really enjoyed spending time with my dad. We talked about a lot of personal things and bonded in a way I didn’t think was possible. Over the years, our differing opinions on MOST issues has really prevented us from gaining a deeper appreciation for each other. My strategy? Listen and leave the criticism at home. With my guard down, our time together was so much more enjoyable. And, I could tell he was in a better place as well. BTW…just the 2 of us caught 35 Walleyes and over 100 northern pike in 2 days. That’s pretty good fishing but they said the walleyes are only just starting to bite. Here are some pics:
Notice in the picture with my Dad cleaning fish…the pan to his left. Those are all walleye fillets. We finished off the last day with some shore lunch. Absolutely one of my favorite trips of all time!
Also have been spending a lot of time with Ben and Will (Ben mostly as he only has school 3 days a week) and helping coach Ben’s baseball team. In exchange, Ben has been helping me with fixing and chores around the house. And, in place of my exercise for several days I traded the treadmill for a landscaping project. Believe me…the landscaping was much more rigorous. Helpers pictured below including my dog Indy.
On a final note, I’ll end my Sabbatical with some pictures of my Daughter’s graduation day. She and her long time boyfriend Adam graduated from the University of Minnesota Liberal Arts college and commencement was this past Sunday. I’m so proud of those two and know they both have bright futures ahead. Adam is an expert with video production and photography and Regan is much like her mom and excels with organization and event planning. She starts next week at Life Source in Minneapolis part time to continue to build her skill set and resume.
I’m truly grateful for having had this Sabbatical opportunity. I really have come a long way in a short period of time and really feel fresh, renewed and blessed (and a little sore from my landscaping). The rest and reflection opportunity was something I just haven’t had time to consider in the past. And, without the barrier of everyday business in my way, I’ve been able to learn a lot about myself, enhance relationships and establish a vision for me to work toward. The book Wild at Heart is really a good book (Thanks for the referral., Todd) and I’m ready to start another. Although I still probably prefer fixing carburetors over reading.
To those that are coming, I look forward to seeing you at MFDA convention next week. For those who are not, hopefully I’ll be lucky enough to see you this summer either at the sales meeting or on a VIP trip.
God Bless!
Scott