Amy’s runs: Saturday, 5m run with Michael around the Mall and Georgetown; Sunday, 4.25m tried to meet Jenna; Monday, 3.5m treadmill run; Tuesday, non-travel related (intentional) rest; Wednesday, 90 minute hot yoga with Bridget and Molly (and others at Bikram Yoga Dupont)
The last few days have been a challenge. Motivating myself to run (even with the encouragement of others) has been hard. Engaging in a new professional community has been mentally tough. I often found myself thinking, “This is hard, but I have to do it anyway.” And, it’s only Wednesday.
On my Saturday run with Michael, I mostly whined about being on a run (sorry, Michael). I was looking forward to connecting with Jenna on Sunday. Unfortunately, our wires got crossed and we missed each other. After waiting 10 minutes, I trudged on. Later, I learned we were waiting about 2 blocks from each other. Who knew meeting at the “Woodley Park Metro” wasn’t specific enough?
I was happy I’d logged a few miles over the weekend and thankful that I’d been able to run with Michael. However, I felt nervous and anxious about the conference, and that seemed to overshadow everything.
The conference set up was like the many I’ve attended – except I didn’t know a single solitary sole. As others hugged, laughed and asked about the kids, I listened, smiled and forced myself to introduce myself to those around me. It was a humbling experience to be unknown. As the days of the conference went on, I met more people, found things in common, shared meals, engaged in conversations and made connections. It was challenging, but I did it. I did it alone, but not without thinking about 2 people quite a bit during the conference: Karen Daniel and my dad.
I received a small grant 8 years ago, and Karen was in charge of the grant program. Karen and her colleagues visited my project site, and she made sure I was introduced to her organization‘s CEO and the funder. Over the years, she has met with me and we’ve developed a friendly relationship. The volunteerism world is small – as are all industries – and Karen and I often attended the same events. Karen would always go out of her way to introduce me to her colleagues. She helped pave the way for me to become a known member in the service community.
This week, as an unknown member of the agricultural community, I did what I know how to do best. I asked questions. During the Educational Committee meeting, I spoke up, asked a few questions and shared my ideas. This caught the attention of Ron, who approached me after the meeting and said, “You can’t expect to say something intelligent and not get noticed at these things.” He badgered me to join the committee. I explained I didn’t know anything, and he assured me that he didn’t when he started either, but that’s where everyone starts. By the end of the conference, I talked to the committee chair and volunteered to be on the committee. Turns out the committee chair has done work with friends of mine from Boise, Idaho. Small world connection.
Ron talked to me about learning from people and situations around you, and he introduced me to his colleagues, wife, daughter and the executive director of the lead organization. He welcomed me, which gave me confidence and helped me feel like I belonged.
Ron, even though I’ve known him for only a few days, and Karen, along with a few others like Maggie Balistreri-Clarke and Steve Loflin, will always have a special place in my heart. I realized this week that the person who has constantly challenged, encouraged, provided me with the space to grow, I hardly ever recognize. My dad. He’s a private man who rarely says anything about himself. He listens, tells a great story and makes an Old Fashioned that made my Grandpa Johnny proud. He lived the life of a loner for years and years building the company and product recognition of Dual Chambered Cow Waterbeds. He was mocked and so was the product he invested everything in. I finally felt first-hand a fraction of what he went through during those early years. He has tirelessly worked to establish credibility, relationships and recognition. If I felt stressed on Sunday, just 3 short days later, I feel humbled that he would allow me the space to grow and challenge myself at helping him build the company and brand further. I am up for the challenge.
Thanks, Dad.
Love, Amy
p.s. Mom is pretty great, too.
p.p.s. Katie – we are lucky girls.
