On March 3, 2010, we came together to support a person who has been a vital team member and contributor to the role we play in projects.
The accepted process for building a high performing team is forming, storming, norming and performing (based on work by Tuckman 1965). On Wednesday, I saw group support that I have never seen anywhere but the military. When you serve in the military, the phrase “I have your back” is never in doubt. If someone doesn’t have your back, you could die.
Karen’s colleagues came out to support her at a time when many of us feel uncomfortable. Death is always viewed as a catastrophe rather than as part of the circle of life.
When her colleagues formed a circle of support, they moved past performing to where they are fully contributing to the well-being of another. It is the kind of support that we all aspire to earn.
The nugget for today is ” you will never know how much you are supported until the cards are down. When you look up, you will see the faces that you never expected and be shocked that they cared enough to show up. When the dust settles, one feels peace, gratitude and wonderment.”
You know who you are and you are more special than you know. I am humbled by the support you gave my friend.
