What Matters Most

Today, I was able, to spend time with my 9-year old.  Keiana was home from school today with strep throat.  Usually, I would be very conflicted with the choice between staying home with my child and going to work.  However, today, as my alarm clock rang and faced with that choice, my answer was seemingly clear.  You see, I have given so much to Corporate America over the past 20 years.  I have worked the 14-15 hour days.  I have worked on numerous teams and projects, all in the name of trying to secure a spot for myself at the head of somebody else's table.  Now, don't get me wrong.  I have loved most every position I have held and enjoy the varied opportunities.  However, the seat I have at the table at my own house is also valuable.  I have come to realize that the people sitting in the boardroom of my own home hold me in much greater esteem than any corporation that I have ever been fortunate enough to work.

While someone else may be evaluating my performance in regards to some ever changing set of criteria,  my family's criteria stays the same.  I know what to expect when I walk through the door.  The same little energetic dog will greet me.  There will be, although it may vary, two daughters, with their demands of homework, drama, cheerleading and the like.  A husband, with a whole other set of wants and needs.  However, their will be no superficial judgement, no competition for that elusive position that may or may not exist, just a family, waiting to be loved unconditionally.

Today, I had a makeover from a 9 year old.  I helped with homework from yesterday and watched re-runs of the Brady Bunch and Good Times.  No, I didn't write any strategic plans or any business objectives, but, what will be remembered most?  I think the bad make-up job and the crazy episode of Good Times we watched.

I am truly re-evaluating what matters most.  Yes, I still am very ambitious about my career.  However, I think, I have to re-evaluate how I get to the next phase of my career.  Maybe the corporate ladder will have to be my own ladder.  Maybe the seat at the table will have to be a table I create for myself with people that I invite.  I think too many of us, women to be specific, sit around, waiting to be invited to the table, when we are the ones cooking the meal!

Lunch with a friend

Delicious appetizers

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow described hospitality as sitting with gladness.  This is a perfect description of my lunch  today. I was glad when Carol extended an invitation for lunch. She is  a gracious hostess and a gourmet cook.

The best part of our time together, we discuss everything.
We share a love of our family, friends, and our faith in God.

Desserts... and Bavarian Cream....

Corn Chowder 

Lovely table setting
and dear friends