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: April Jefferson
I had the pleasure of really connecting with April at the Agile2018 conference. We had chatted several times but this is the moment that I knew there was something extra special about her. I was struggling walking down the hallway but couldn’t share why. I thought I was doing an ok job hiding but for the most part just tried to continue on. April saw me…walked directly up to me…put my face in her hands and said “I see you.” In that moment, I didn’t have to explain anything. I didn’t need her to fix anything. I just felt support. From that moment, my respect has only continued to grow. Now this is enough for an appreciation but April continuously shows me what is possible. With everything going on in the world but not being able to be with people, my usual ways of support and feeling connection are not enough. At a minimum, I’ve been reaching out. So while April and I were chatting back and forth (as I was walking on the treadmill), I sent her a quick “hugs” little graphic text. She responded with:
“Cross your arms across your chest. Squeeze tight. That’s me hugging you. Hold it. Hold it. Squeeze one more time. Hold it. Release when you are ready.”
I responded with “Ditto! Same time, right now”
Now for those that know me really well, I’m not big on the hand on your heart techniques. However, just reading these words; I immediately felt her with me. So I did it. And I continued to feel her and tears rolled down my face. I don’t want to speak for her, but for me, it was a moment I desperately needed. I have since shared that message with several people and each time…I feel a different level of connection. Thank you April for being the amazing wonderful caring woman that helps me learn even more what is possible! I am so grateful for our friendship.
Picture from LinkedIn
