Unfortunately, saying thank you seems to be an after thought more and more. So at least once a month, I will take a few minutes to publicly appreciate someone that has had an impact on me.
This round: Lisa Crispin
My memory is failing me. I cannot recall the first time I met Lisa. I am positive it was at an Agile conference but which one or what year, I have no recollection. What I do know is that every interaction with Lisa has been enjoyable: attending her sessions, catching up over lunch, emails and even the quick hello/hug as we pass in the halls.
Recently, I received an email from Lisa inviting me and my family out to her home for a afternoon of chatting, food and donkey rides. She had coordinated a few of us from the Agile community to come together to hang out. She lives on the opposite side of Denver from me but I didn’t hesitate to say yes.
There are a million reasons to appreciate Lisa and what she contributes to the Agile community. This post is about what she did with my daughter. I watched her teach my daughter how to get up on the wagon. She told her the steps and was there in support but let her do it all by herself. Lisa drove the donkeys for a little while and then asked Keira if she wanted to hold the reins. Keira wasn’t ready and said no. Lisa simply said ok and kept driving. Then she offered my son to drive, which he was all about this. As Keira got down, she asked Keira to show Sean how to get up on the wagon. By the time Sean was done, Keira was itching to try but didn’t want to ask. Lisa instinctively knew to offer Keira another chance. I listened as Lisa taught, praised, supported and enjoyed watching my daughter learn.
I found myself thinking…Keira, you are so lucky to have this woman coaching you. I know, it was a donkey ride but that’s the point. It was only a donkey ride and I was learning and inspired by Lisa, just like every interaction at a conference. A true leader is one that leads at work and at home.
So thank you Lisa for the hospitality and the example that we should all strive to achieve.
Tricia
Picture from me
