In memoriam

Colleagues,

365 days ago, Margaret Heidlebaugh departed this world. Maggie was my mother-in-law, and she had a superpower.
 
Every time I walked through her front door she would make the world stop. She ceased all movement, looked into my eyes, lit up like a North Carolina lighthouse, and said, “Frederick!” in a way that made me feel like I was the most important person in the world. I can still hear – and feel – her say my name. 
 
We should all learn something from Maggie. How did she do it?
 
The technical:

1. She stopped everything, even her movement
2. She looked right into my eyes
3. Her face lit up with a huge smile
4. She said my name with intentionality and carefully, almost like it was a fine chocolate meant to be savored. 

 
The authentic: 
I believe that when she saw me, her world really did stop, and I really was the most important person for that moment. That is why my world stopped, and why I felt so important.
 
Imagine being able to give this gift to people on a routine basis. What would it be like if, every day, you could make each person in your organization (and your family!) feel like they were the most important person on the planet, even if just for a moment?
 
I doubt any of us will ever be as good at that as Maggie was, but if we can be better at it than what we are now, that will be beautiful gift for those we serve.
 
I love you Maggie and thank you for always making me feel special. I will try to pass it forward.
 
Cheers,
 
Frederick