Here I sit once again at 30,000 feet. I am returning home again after a whirlwind run to California for a 4 hour meeting only finding myself turning right back to the airport. In fact this time I almost missed my flight out because I was running over at the meeting and was 45 miles from the airport and had about 90 minutes until my flight left. I was driving a bit fast to get back to the airport, talking with Carlo Carrenho from Thomas Nelson Brazil, missed the rental return, had to turn around and pulled in to a frustrated line of Hertz renters who were watching one lady check everyone back in. She was calling the front desk asking for fresh batteries because her machine was running slow. I couldn’t wait for her so I simply left the keys on the car seat and told her to send me the bill (note – if you are a Hertz Gold Member you can take advantage of this). And then I sat down just as they closed the doors- not a bad day’s work.
If you have followed me enough you know that I have made a practice of flying in, doing my work, and flying out. I love it. I really do. I have learned that wasted time really is just that- wasted. Not so much from a business point of view anymore because of all the technology to help keep you informed and in full communication. I am speaking from a personal point of view. You know; the life we all have outside of work.
To be honest with you- I try harder than ever to get home now. I would rather spend an extra hour, an extra evening, and an extra weekend with my wife and kids than to spend it with any one of you that are reading this post. Now of course I love each of you; but just not that much.
It’s more than just sleeping in my own bed, it’s more than just not having to pack a suitcase, it’s more than just eating at my own table. It’s about my wife’s smile, it’s about my kid’s laughter, it’s about my wife sleeping better because I am there if anything goes wrong, and it’s about just being in love. Yeah, that’s really what it is.
Last week we celebrated or 21st wedding anniversary. Sure we have had a few tough times, even times when she should have kicked me out of the house. But she didn’t, and I am so glad. I love her more today than I ever have. I am proud of her. She is my best friend.
Can I tell you a secret? Promise not to tell anyone. Sometimes while I am at work, I sneak in a quick text to my wife, just to let her know that I am thinking of her and that I love her.
How about you? Are you letting work get between you and the people you love?
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