stories shared and lessons learned
Just before my 50th birthday I told my wife Pam that I wanted to try to run a 5K. I had never been a runner, so 3.1 miles sounded like quite a challenge. The following Sunday our pastor announced that we would be supporting a mission to help provide people clean water in impoverished around the world. To do so, we would join Team World Vision in running either a half or full marathon. Pam gently elbowed me and said “You should try that half marathon thing”.
Now I have always loved missions, but 13.1 miles is just slightly more than the daunting 3.1 miles of a 5K. Although a bit reluctant, I said “Yes”.
Fast forward to today and I have now logged 100’s of miles on the running trails. I have had a chance to run in places like Canada, Mt Hood Oregon, Utah, Washington, Indiana, Florida, Michigan, and so many more beautiful places. Some of the most amazing experiences however, have been the conversations with friends, new and old, along the trails.
It’s these conversations that reminded me that stories can bring encouragement, laughter, tears, guidance, clarity and so much, but only when we share them.
Hope you enjoy a few of mine. - Rusty
“If you want to go fast. go alone, if you want to go far, go together.”
When we come together with a shared mission, vision and values, the improbable becomes possible
Vulnerability can be inviting others to join you on the journey
An amazing example of leading well through vulnerability.
Built in 1860, our old house is far from perfect.
Just like an old house, our imperfections can become opportunities over time—it's called character!
Muddy patches are where the real impact happens.
Our clients often come to us feeling “stuck in the mud."
“CEO should actually stand for Chief ENCOURAGEMENT Officer.”
“Encourage” is one of five words I wrote down on a whiteboard to remind me of my own personal mission statement.
If I’ve ever won 1st place before, it definitely wasn’t in a running event.
While my Olympic dreams may have been dashed, I was reminded of the importance of having clarity when it comes to results.
"What do you want to be true about your family SEVEN GENERATIONS FROM NOW?"
This question forced us to think more intentionally about the impact our actions TODAY have on future generations.
I give you permission to be “too slow.”
Appreciate the journey, invest in your relationships, and remember that not everything that counts can be measured.
In 2001, I paid cash for a brand new Chevy Silverado.
Okay, so my Chevy isn’t going anywhere. I fully plan on keeping it until the tires fall off.
Legacy starts with consistency.
When it comes to consistency of blessing, it doesn’t have to be isolated to your family unit. It also applies at work.
Every business needs hunters and farmers.
This photo? It’s from our very first marketing piece in 2000.