Hi Friend
Last week, I wrote you from Casper Wyoming, this week I’m in the beautiful snow saturated Jackson Hole, Wyoming. In between it’s been a wild ride. We had a fabulous two-day virtual conference for MWCA. There were many first, for us. We did a live stream within a live stream. We did two live virtual panels simultaneously. We had a blast with the Google Randomizer drawing names. We had chat moderators in the room, who I brought on camera.
I never use this letter to promote anything, that’s not its point. But I am loving how we have shaped a unique offering in the virtual space, that really creates a lively, dynamic, fun conference. My client on this one said “We have to put out for comparative bids, but there is no one else who does what you do.” #ProudMoment So if you know somebody who needs an incredible virtual experience… 😉
As planned, after the conference I got up the next morning and drove to Yellowstone. I originally thought I was going to drive through the North Entrance, because it’s opened to vehicles. The locals compelled me otherwise to go to the West Gate. It’s closed to traffic, but you can walk in. So I did. For five hours I traipsed around West Yellowstone. The main road, was like a wide snowy hiking trail.
I went off track a few times. The snow was up past my knees! I almost thought I got lost for a minute, when I had ventured far enough back that I felt like I was really deep in the woods. Not that I’m an endorser of products, but my kids got me these thick Red Head socks for Christmas from Cabela’s. It’s like they had their own internal heater. My feet were buried deep in snow, yet my toes were toasty. 🔥
Most people were concerned about me. Compelled me to be extra cautious and safe. However, I sent a picture to my friend Mitch that said “Be Bear Aware”. His response made me smile and wish I lived closer to him. He said…
“Nice. A little bit of danger makes things more exciting.”
I’ve known Mitch since Kindergarten. He was the best man in my wedding. Every year we’d go back home we’d visit his family and he and I would go for a hike in Mohican State Park. We used to camp there when we were in high school. I admire the guy tremendously. In every way he has characteristics I wish I had in my life. His response, only confirmed why I love him so much.
Two Things:
1) After thinking about Mitch for a while, I started reflecting on several other friends in my life and I realized, like Mitch, I admire many qualities in them. I’m fortunate to have people in my life who I think are rather spectacular. You know that saying about being the average of your five closest friends? That’s not true in my case. I’m generally the least of them. Seriously. I know you think I’m being self-deprecating or humble. I’m not. If you met Randy, Rodney, David, Chris, Steve, Joe, Phil, Rich, Steven, Jeremy, Mathew, Cody, Heady & Jack – at first glance they might just look like regular guys. For me however, they embody heroic attributes that I desire to replicate someday.
Who do you have in your life that you aspire to be like?
2) I loved that Mitch leaned into the danger. I tend to make unsafe choices and every now and then, it’s nice when someone encourages that behavior. 😆 We live in a world of “safe travels.” I dislike that phrase. A couple years ago, I wrote about it saying I’d rather have adventurous travels that created memories. I do want to remain alive though. So I requested people instead say to me “Don’t Die” when I’m heading out for a trip. My friend Joe to this day still wishes me that when I’m venturing off. It makes me smile.
Who is encouraging you to take risks?
Since I’ll have over 40 hours on this road trip, I’ve been listening to audio books. I’m about 75% done with the autobiography of the guy who started Nike. The book is called Shoe Dog. It’s filled with audacious decision-making and incredible daring! I’m aghast and inspired by his determination and precarious willingness.
Instigating ideas
1. Where could you go “off track” to experience something a little different?
2. Let one of your friends know what you admire about them.
3. Who could you inspire to enjoy the sense the danger appearing in their life?
Friend, I want to be a friend in your life who is continually compelling you to reach for your full potential. It’s a risky business becoming all we’re capable of. I’m grateful you consider my words.