Happy Bastille Day 2021

I'm working with some great clients today, they are working through what they need to think about for the first building blocks of a massive transformation. As we kicked off today, I acknowledged the special date that they we are starting out on, July 14, 14 Juillet, Bastille Day, Fete Nationale du 14 juillet.

Then I found myself linking several of my favorite things. I love that the key to the Bastille was gifted to George Washington and that it is hanging in a gilded case at Mount Vernon. Bastille Key?·?George Washington's Mount Vernon

I love that I have a cast iron copy of that same key sitting on my desk today, here in California. I love that today, the "little sister of the Statue of Liberty", a bronze statue cast in a mold from the original plaster maquette of "Lady Liberty" was on the shore of New York Harbour for the 4th of July, 2021 and that today, July 14, 2021 it was unveiled at the Residence of His Excellency the French Ambassador to the United States, in Washington, DC. A Second Statue of Liberty Is Coming to the U.S.—Thanks to France | Architectural Digest

At the break today I suggested that everyone go outside, if they are able to do so, to get some fresh air and sunshine. I followed my own advice and found that the Peace roses in our garden are in full bloom. Peace roses, bred in France survived the ravages of World War II as some of the cuttings were sent to safe havens abroad, including the United States. I particularly enjoy the connections of the United Nations, France and the United States in this way. Those same Peace roses were offered to the delegates of the first United Nations conference in San Francisco, just across the bay from where I live and am typing this message. The PEACE rose ? MEILLAND International

It is a very small world of shared histories, destinies and friendships. I'm so glad that I got to spend today with awesome clients and colleagues. Happy Bastille day to you all. Life is full of magic. Andy Heppelle at Capgemini Get The Future You Want (capgemini.com)