I walked into the Kennedy Space Center and looked up at the rocket park. I was transported back in time as suddenly my 10-year old self remembered the wonderment and excitement of tracking the space program.
As I came on watch, the last of the light of the day faded. Everyone else was settling down in the sailboat for the night. I was alone at the wheel in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, responsible for keeping the boat on track and everyone safe for my three-hour watch. Turning around to look behind the boat, I saw a slightly darker cloud approaching. I knew that could only mean a squall was coming with lots more wind. It was time to roll in some of the sails so that we would still be in control when the squall hit.
For a week, I couldn’t call my wife Karalee. Couldn’t text her either. She couldn’t call or text me either. Our communication by phone completely broke down. Coordinating logistics in two busy lives became difficult. Having a chance to discuss emotional issues, like our daughter’s recent pneumonia had to wait until we were together.
I believe that when we stretch ourselves in one part of our lives, that stretch shows up in other parts of our lives. That is why I encourage leaders to do things that expand and hone their edges, whether it is in work, life, or play.
