“Stop praying for safety and start praying for boldness.”
It would be impossible to tell my story without first talking about my family.
Home was always a safe place. The key relationships there would protect, challenge, cheer and ultimately toughen me up. Love was expressed unconditionally. My family had great faith in the Lord and the teachings of the Bible guided their values.
My mother, Mary Alice, was a social worker and a Valparaiso University graduate. I don’t remember a time when she was not a volunteer somewhere. I believe the kids at school liked her better then they liked me. She often protested for what was right and taught me to be tough. She married my dad in 1960, and an inter-racial marriage was just another challenge they would overcome together.
My older sister, Sherilyn, was my protecter and biggest fan. She showed up for everything. She has always looked out for her little brother…even when he was distant and stubborn.
My dad (given name, Moon Dick…changed to Richard M.) spent much of his life teaching me how to live when he wouldn’t be here.
He was an entrepreneur when it was not en vogue. He encouraged me to try new things and try my best at whatever I did. My dad modeled what hard work was. I’ve never been confused when I have or have not worked hard.
My dad taught me it was OK to fail without being a failure.
The most complex relationship I ever had was with my Aunt Sue (who I always called Sue). She was also my roommate, boss and mentor.
Sue taught me what thinking BIG looked like. She had endless energy. She showed me what true love looked like.
Within a 6 month period her business teetered on the edge of bankruptcy. Her mother died. Her husband died. Watching her fight on made me realize that I never had to question what “tough” looked like.
I’ve spent a lot of my life chasing success. I was interested in achieving and besting myself. I didn’t “feel”.
I’m changing that now. A head to heart connection has begun to take shape, and I’m pursuing it relentlessly. I’m taking the tools I’ve spent a career building and repurposing them for a better use.
Because what I’ve learned is…