Chapter 6

Today is the day. One of those annual events where I have to be larger than life, meet requirements that are far beyond me, lead and inspire men and women who are already accomplishing astonishing things. These are no fresh faced college recruits, but people who win the day everyday, for decades. Just typing the words out on digital paper gives me the willys. But this day has arrived again this year and nothing will stop it. Go big or go home? I am not even sure I understand what that means.

But over the years, these people have believed in me, cheered me on, listened to me whine, watch me reach for the stars, and supported me left and right for decades. I can’t let them down. Even people who are already hero’s need someone to believe in and look up to, and be inspired by. There is serious weight to that thought. It’s a weight that no one can carry well for long periods of time.

“Just do your best” many of you may think, but I am here to tell you that your best is likely not good enough. Like Winston Churchill said, you gotta do what is “required” your best or not. So stand up before these men and women and help them believe. They will not know what is going on inside of you, they will only know what you left them with, what you inspired them with, how you made them feel. Then tomorrow, when you are looking back on this day, remember that you did what was required, what was needed, and that is what makes you into a person that they can believe in and trust and support. 

Just your best - is too limiting.