Not me...

I attended a conference this week.  Throughout the conference, most of the workshops told the same bottom line-making relationships is what matters most and is the key to success in schools-which was quite important.  However, I did get quite a bit from the opening keynote speaker.  


His name is Keni Thomas.  Keni was awarded the Bronze Star for Valor for his contribution in the Battle of Mogadishu.  He is also one of country music's up and coming artists.  Let me say right now...I did not know any of this walking in to the room.  I have to be honest, going in the auditorium that early morning to hear the opening keynote speaker didn't exactly grab my full attention at first.  Here I am thinking it was going to be another "motivational" speaker with lots to say about the same thing.  So, there I am looking through the conference catalog to see which sessions sounded most interesting for me to attend.  I'm thumbing through the descriptions and made my schedule.  I don't remember how long it took me, but it took a little bit and all the while I was paying half attention to Mr. Thomas.  I put away the catalog and begin to actually listen.  He was telling HIS story of what he went through during the battle he fought.  He described each of his team members and told of their weaknesses... and what made their strengths.  He spoke of how the leadership of everyone on the team was important and that their team's strength and survival (to say the least) depended on their weakest link.  Each member had their weaknesses, but as a team they had to help fill in and build on their strengths.  He talked about stepping up and taking the lead....doing what you were called to do; to not say "not me."  He spoke of bravery, self-sacrifice, motivation, compassion, and leadership.  


I can't begin to give his entire story justice.  I will tell you of his book where he tells his story-"Get it On!: What it Means to Lead the Way."  "Get it On" was derived from the call out he got as he was entering the battle.  He was just about to write a letter to his mom and had started it with "Dear Mom."  That was all he wrote right before another person came in to where he was and yelled out "Get it On!"; which was the call for dropping everything to get ready for battle.  As he states, his life forever changed at that moment.    


I also want to leave you with a clip where he ended his speech playing his guitar and singing his song titled "Not Me."  The clip is not the actual performance from the conference.  Rather it is a You Tube clip.  The song is very moving so listen clearly to the lyrics.  


So, if you find some time and want to read and/or listen to something quite inspirational and motivating, check out Mr. Thomas.  No, I am not receiving anything to promote his material.  I just felt he has a strong message that should be shared with all who will take some time to listen.