INSPIRASUNS

I’m spending this week with some old friends. We’re celebrating the 20th anniversary of the association I was a part of in many ways for more than 15 years. I’m looking forward to seeing old friends, hugging many necks, and celebrating a community that has grown so much over the years.

As I look at what we will share this week, I realize the changes that have happened over the years. Many of the members and mentors who helped build our association are no longer with us. We mourned their loss, and this week we will remember their contributions and celebrate the gift of knowing them. I remember when our annual meeting floored us with a count of 300. This week, we will celebrate record attendance, over 1200 attendees. When I started in my role many years ago, we had to fight to even get recognition in the industry. Today, companies actively seek out this premier association to understand how they, too, can be a part of the community. Yes, change happens; sometimes it’s difficult to handle, sometimes it’s amazing, but one thing is certain: change will happen.

What I’ve also realized over the last few days, as I’ve reconnected with friends, Father has blessed me, has blessed us with incredible relationships. He brings people into our lives to anchor us, and to remind us that long ago He saw that “Man should not be alone”.

So, this week I give thanks for the past career I enjoyed. I give thanks for the friendships that were built and continue today. I give thanks for all those whom Father brought into my life to help shape who I am today. I give thanks for the gift of the family we built together. Cheers AADOM to 20 years 🙂 . I look forward to seeing many of you this week.

Have a good day, friends. Prayers continue for the return of sweet Emily Rea.