The gift of “I BELIEVE IN YOU”

August 15, 2018

By Lorie Pope

As I was picking chokecherries from our shelterbelt this summer, it triggered memories of my childhood. Going down memory lane, I re-discovered a very special principle of leadership that I’ve taken for granted, at times. It took me back to a very hot summer day back in the sixties. My dad, two older brothers and I were hoeing weeds in the shelterbelt at our farm and picking chokecherries.

In the middle of that hot afternoon, Dad said to me, “Take the car and drive into town. Buy dilly bars and pop for us. We’ll take a break when you get back.” I could hardly believe what I’d heard! You see, I was only ten years old and didn’t have much experience driving. My brothers couldn’t believe it, either! However, since they got more done in the same amount of time as me, I was the chosen one..

Since this was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up, I was very careful to show no signs of hesitation. Even though I had no idea how to get to town miles away (Dad told me I’d see the sign down the road where to turn), I dropped my hoe and gleefully told my brothers, “Goodbye. See you later!”.

Was I nervous? No, not really. Because if Dad believed I could do it, then I knew that I could do it. I knew he wouldn’t ask me to do anything that would be beyond my capabilities. End of discussion..

Off I went down the highway, found the sign…and the town…dilly bars and pop. I do remember it was a bit tricky finding my way back and getting comfortable with the gas pedal and brake. But, mission accomplished..

My folks grew up on farms in North Dakota during the Great Depression. They taught us to value hard work, take opportunity when it comes and be resourceful. Never accept defeat – always find answers. Dad was full time in the fields by age ten, driving a team of horses, so he gave great responsibility to us kids at an early age..

My dad’s belief in me through the years helped open up many opportunities for me, because I figured somehow, I’d make it work. It established a foundational way of living…it might be new territory, but road signs would be along the way. Say ‘yes’ and take the risk to go ahead..

I asked him the other day about the story, as we’d never discussed it. Now 92, Dad told me, “I knew it was a dumb idea, but also knew you were more than capable to do it. You’d always come through in the past by showing courage to go ahead. We needed the help.”.

Actually, it was his belief in me that gave me the courage to go ahead. What a gift! And others that were influential in my life, such as my mom, who throughout the years have gifted me with “I believe you can do it” to take risks and go after dreams. My folks thought all of their five children were ‘more than capable.’ That in turn gave us wings to say ‘yes’ to opportunities. Very rarely did I doubt if I could do something, because I knew hard work and failure were simply steps in the process of success if I kept on and confidence was an ally..

So, I’d like to pause and reflect with you. Who in your life has believed in you and given you the courage to go for it? Be intentional and take the time today to thank them for the impact they have had in your life..

Pass on this significant gift. Who are you giving that powerful gift to right now?.

Do they know that you believe in them? Have you taken the time to help them develop as a leader?.

Live leadership from the heart!.