Defining Moments

Some defining moments are better than others, but all are usually revelations into how you see yourself or how others see you... I work in call center environment and let me tell you; there is never a dull day! As a matter of fact there are never any two days that are the same.

I work with a lot of young people and they always keep things interesting. And even though I am a proud card carrying member of the AARP I never really gave much thought to the cavernous difference in the age of my group. At least not until last week...

I was involved in some what of an email war with someone in another department. However I have a policy that if an email goes back and forth more than twice... then it is best to meet face to face instead of continuing the debate. It is extremely easy to get things twisted in email communication. But in person you can usually get and give the correct message.

At any rate this young man met with me and begin to apologize... he knew that sending the email out of anger was wrong. I accepted his apology... but he continued... he explained that "I don't know what got into me. My parents did not raise me that way."

And then it happened... he said, "my parents always raised me to respect people that are older than me."

That's it... It is official, I now have become one of those elders that everyone is supposed to respect! Wait a minute! Hold on! I don't think I am ready! Oh well there is good news, in 2 more years I will qualify for the senior discount at the movie theater!

Keep smiling, every day above ground is a great one!

Rod

Big Brothers and Big Sisters

I’d like to share a story with you… 24 years ago I had the honor and the privilege of joining the “Big Brothers Association if Greater Indianapolis”. My little brother DeMarrco was 11 years old at the time. We were very good friends and even though I joined thinking that I would be able to help someone I soon found that my little brother helped me as much as I helped him. We both grew as people.

A few years ago my wife and I had lunch with my little brother (he is 6’2” not so little any more) and his wife. He is now 35 years old, and they have two children. To see him grow into a responsible man made me extremely proud… As a matter of fact I thought that I could not have been happier with the decision to join the Big Brothers organization.

Well I was wrong I did get happier… four years ago my daughter (she was 21 at the time) called me from her apartment at Indiana State University… she was extremely excited… she said, “Dad, guess what? I met my Little Sister today and we have so much in common!”

My daughter had joined her local chapter of the Big Sisters Organization… my experience made an impression on her and because of my decision over 20 years ago; she is volunteering her time to someone else today.

The reason that I wanted to share this story is to bring attention to a great organization... The Big Brothers and Sisters chapters are always looking for great people that would be willing to share themselves and their time.

If you have been looking for a worthwhile way to volunteer, look into Big Brothers and Big Sisters, you’ll be glad you did... for years to come!

Rod (Big Brother) White

If and When

If you can think of different solutions; your problem is half solved... put action to it and let it evolve.

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If you drink, let it be due to an unquenchable thirst and drink from the fountain of knowledge...

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If you must steal, only steal the heart of your partner...

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When you speak, let it be about the joy of life, the greatness of liberty and the ability to pursue happiness... Let it be about the good in people...

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When you pray, let it be a prayer of thanks, a prayer of counting blessings not problems...

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When you give, be it love, be it time, be it work or even play, give it your all... Give it all away--

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Rod White