Stealing second base...

Dan, it was a real treat being able to deliver a training class for your sales team; after all YOU trained me 14 years ago in 2004 when I joined Nextel. It was an honor to return the favor to your group of Small Business Experts yesterday.

I remember having such respect and admiration for you, Armin, Jeff, Jon & Jay when you guys ran the Chicago region. You five worked hard and had fun doing it, I looked up to you guys. I remember it like it was yesterday, but it was actually over 5000 days ago when you and Armin delivered the two day training at 300 Park Boulevard in Itasca. You both taught me so much more than just the “free incoming” Nextel rate plans and about cutting edge push to talk technology. Thank you both for encouraging me to say Yes to things that are outside my comfort zone; that is truly where the magic happens.  

In the last 14 years I’ve taken some incredibly big risks and came up short, I’ve heard no personally and professionally too many times to count. I’ve been in second place, last place, lost and stuck on many opportunities over the last 5,000 days. I’ve failed over and over in my life but that is why I succeed.  Thank you Dan for reminding me that is ok.

14 years ago in Itasca you told us “Progress often involves risk. You can’t steal second base and keep your foot on first base.” Thank you Dan for the encouragement to get off the bag. 

Who on your team is going to be the next to steal second base?