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.
I honestly can’t remember when or how I met Michael. I have known him for years but do not recall the very first introduction. For years now, he’s been a presence in my life at the Agile Alliance conferences in particular – so sometimes I feel like I’ve always known him.
I decided to dedicate this appreciation to Michael from the recent Scrum Gathering in London. One of the first people I encountered when I arrived to the event was Michael. As usual, he gives the best welcoming hugs. However, he immediately acknowledged that for the last couple of times we have been at the same events we have not had an opportunity to connect and catch up. Here’s what I want to really highlight…when Michael is present with you, there is no doubt that he is putting in 100% of his attention and listening to you. You get the sense that nothing could distract him from this connection. Not only is he insightful, caring and funny…he simply cares.
This is not something we should take for granted or allow to go unnoticed. So thank you Michael, for being an example of a leader that makes a difference. For demonstrating what listening truly is. For promoting the importance of time to connect. For being you.
Tricia
Picture from his website: http://agilitrix.com