Intention or Attention?

I find the journey of life interesting particularly as I observe others.

I see people who work tirelessly for the benefit of others. No fanfare. No recognition. No awards on their shelves. Just doing the right thing because, well, it's the right thing to do. They live day-to-day to serve others. These are the silent warriors. I sit in awe of them when they cross my path. They are some of my heroes.

What about us? Are we satisfied when our good work goes unrecognized? Are we okay doing good without it being acknowledged? Can we dare to work for a purpose higher than ourselves without people rooting us on?

Perhaps it's time for some self-reflection. To what extent do I do the right thing when no one is looking? Integrity has been defined this way, but perhaps integrity is more than just a decision of right and wrong in the moment. Can we dare to extend it to our life's work and be satisfied in doing good even when no one is looking? To what extent will I work tirelessly to live a life of service when no one is looking? Will I do good when it's unnoticed and unrecognized?

To those silent warriors, I see you and I thank you for your example of service. On this very hot summer day, I'll take some time to reflect on these questions. Will you join me? 

--Mindy Muller, CFRE, President/CEO of CDP

#leadership #integrity #purpose #calling #communitydevelopmentprofessionals