Leadership: Growing Through Hardships

When the High School valedictorian said " I felt like my parents had thrown me to the wolves when I came to this school..." I knew the speech was going to be a good one. It also could be that the graduate, Ben, was my husband's great-nephew. You decide.

It was unbearable weather on Sunday, June 26 at the Owen D. Young High School in Upper New York State. But Ben held our attention and made us think. He spoke about the trials of going from being home-schooled to public school. Not feeling like he fit in to now after his seven years at the school feeling as though they were a family.

Ben's being chosen to be valedictorian and receiving 11 awards that day as well as obtaining scholarships to college attest to his desire to excel even in adverse conditions, his ability to use his talents wisely and to serve his family.

It wasn't easy for Ben as it is not easy for leaders, who step into a new division, new department, or a new territory. But with determination, support of others and your desire to make your team a family...one that cares about each other, that knows each others talents and can work together to succeed, that is a sign of great leader.

Congrat's Ben for a job well done!

Barb...LL