Over the
last several months our communities have lost some amazing human beings and it
has caused me to reflect. After the last
celebration of life I attended, as one of a certain age commonly does, I took a
long look at my life. Every celebration ceremony showed an individual who had
made a tremendous impact on those around them, no matter their age. I was impressed by each individual’s inspiring
leadership, yes, leadership, and I hope to carry on those qualities I admired
most.
Beautiful
Kayle Porter was a tremendous role model to young people in our community. She gave herself large goals and worked very
hard at achieving each one. From working
three or four jobs, to going on a mission to serve those less fortunate, she was
always moving forward. At her
celebration there were many stories from friends and loved ones who described
Kayle as always supportive and encouraging others to reach their goals. Kayle’s
leadership will help me be a more encouraging leader.
The Wake
for John Conlan gave yet another pause for thought when from 2p to 11p downtown
at the Hive, on a play-off afternoon, a continuous revolving crowd of 300 plus
paid homage to a great friend. From his
time in the Marines to his time spent as a business owner in Sandpoint, he
lived a full life. The stories were
about a man who gladly fought for his country and fully enjoyed his life. Making people happy
was always in the forefront of his mind. He was always quick with a joke or a
story to make a person smile. His
leadership example was to always find the humor even in difficult situations,
and continue on.
Mayor
Marsha Ogilvie was certainly the most well-known leader and I am honored to
have known her. She started making a difference as soon as she moved to
Sandpoint. Being a foster child spurred her idea for Kinderhaven, a safe-haven
for children in crisis. She was also a successful businesswoman and experienced
first-hand what it was like to do business in Sandpoint. Marsha’s leadership
example for me was two-fold; it’s about the people and don’t be afraid to change
things up because change is not only good, but often necessary to move forward.
Captain David Lyon (Lissy) was the ultimate example of leadership; selflessness. Stories of his young life included always reaching out to help others and being someone you could always count on. Out of the four mentioned individuals, Captain Lyon was the only one I didn’t know personally. However, I have always had a deep respect for those who serve in the armed forces. I was in high school during the Vietnam War and it was a very emotional time. The thought of someone who doesn’t even know me, who is willing to die for me, was, and still is, an overwhelming concept. Thank you for the example of selflessness Captain Lyon.
A wonderful thing about our community, among many, is how we are full of inspiring leaders. Look around you at those who are offering solutions and positively affecting change. As a leader do you offer solutions, or add to the problems? We have over 150 non-profits in our surrounding communities. That is amazing. I want to thank all of you who are working hard for our community. I know it’s not always easy to keep going, but think about these amazing people and all the others who have gone before. Strive to be encouraging; see humor even in the darkest times; it IS about the people; don’t be afraid to make changes and always, always think about the bigger picture, the good of the whole. Together, let’s continue to be inspiring leaders.
See you around town.
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