In DC: Inspired by a Jogger

 Have you ever had one of those chance encounters that changed your perspective and inspired you at the same time? I’m about to share a completely unexpected experience with you – that has had a profound impact on my family.  

A couple weekends ago, we took a road trip to Washington, D.C. for my daughter's cheerleading competition. While my daughter went through some final preparations with her team, the rest of the family took a few hours to see the sights.

We visited the Lincoln Memorial, walked to the Washington Monument and continued along the Mall. My wide-eyed 11-year-old son was in awe; pointing out things he saw along the way and asking questions. His inquisitive nature caught the attention of a nearby jogger, who stopped and struck up a conversation with the three of us. The gentlemen had a great sense of how to relate to my son - and the man’s interest in my boy’s intellectual curiosity was genuine. After a brief exchange, he produced his business card and invited us to a personal tour of his workplace - the United States Capitol.

Little did we know, this kind stranger with great knowledge of the city was also a United States Congressman. Two hours later, we met him for a tour of the Capitol, on his day off.

He escorted us through a private side entrance and through security. We started on the floor of the House of Representatives where the Congressman took great care in telling little known stories of its history. He facilitated a role play where my son got to act out how he would address the Speaker and members of Congress in the proper fashion. He explained where everyone sat and what it meant to literally "reach across the aisle". He showed us the "secret" elevator entrance, leading to tunnels that only Congressmen and occasional reporters can access. We visited the original room where the Congress met and saw the old Senate and Supreme Court chambers. The Congressman also pointed out statues along our tour from New Jersey, our current state of residence, even taking photos of our family on several occurrences.

All told, the Congressman spent nearly two hours hosting us on a Saturday, for no other reason but to impress upon my son what leadership, service and unfettered kindness looks like.

As leaders, our greatest goal is to inspire another generation of future leaders to reach for their dreams. I’m grateful to the Congressman for this unexpected lesson in servant leadership – and in selflessly investing time in developing others.

It's a day my son, husband and I will never forget.