Thursday, July 15, 2010

Celebrating Mediocrity


I just recently got a postcard in the mail from an online company touting that they were 2 for 2! This is the second year in a row that this company is #2 in customer satisfaction. At first, I was really surprised at reading that this company was so proud of being #2, much less for 2 years in a row. Then, I wanted to know what was the name of the #1 company. If and when I shop online, I'd rather shop with the company that is known for their level of outstanding support and customer service.

Immediately, I had to begin examining myself and thoughts. Aren't we supposed to be excited about being the best? Aren't we trained and conditioned to desire to be#1? Why do we continue to be ok with being average? Then I thought about it a little more. Prior to 2 years ago, what number was this company? Were they #15, #10, or even #5 and are now inching up in pursuit of greatness? Have they managed to finally break out of the pack and for them, #2 is as good as being #1 because of how far they have come? Are they on the verge of unseating the #1 company and wanted to let all of their previous customers now?

Then, I stopped, thought about it for a minute, and wondered if I've fallen into this train of thought with my own family. Am I training my children to accept mediocrity in any form? Am I creating an environment where being #1 is the only "acceptable" way to be? Have I ingrained in their minds that if they weren't great at something, but worked hard to get better, it's still only OK, and not great? What value do I place on effort?

I have to admit, it makes me want to stop, take stock, and applaud every time one of my children do anything mildly great. Not that I want to celebrate mediocrity, but I do want to let them know that greatness comes in all forms and effort means a lot!

Not sure how you feel about it, but I won't celebrate being average. I will push my children to be the best they can be, but I will expect them to give a terrific effort in the process. I encourage you to examine your thoughts and actions, but more importantly to laugh out loud and enjoy your family today.

Feel free to read my Examiner articles or e-mail me at dorothy@dacbooks.com.

*image courtesy of Getty Images: Todd Warshaw Getty Images Sport featuring Dale Earnhardt Jr.

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Confident in this one thing

Wow, it's been a minute since I've written. I probably think to write something daily, but time is not always in my favor. Anyway, here are a few good thoughts to contemplate.

Last week, my hubby gave me the second greatest and heartfelt compliment I can ever recall, all without knowing it! We were celebrating our 10 year anniversary and decided to take a sunset cruise. As the breeze off the Gulf of Mexico steadily cooled our skin from the relentless sun beating down on us, we talked and drank virgin pina coladas. After meeting and greeting a host of other couples, one who was celebrating their 50th anniversary, we took our seats and prepared for dinner.

On the menu were lobster (for me) and steak and lobster for James. The meal was average at best, and I was sorely disappointed at the quality of food. I expressed my displeasure to James, but he knew. I love food and like the food critic in the cartoon movie, Ratatouille, "if I don't like it, I don't eat it!" Not a problem I often have, but certainly a concept I embrace. I had high expectations based on the price they were charging. However, it dawned on me that the reason they charged such an outrageous amount of money was because the cruise included unlimited basic alcoholic beverages. Since we don't drink, this was by far, not a selling feature. I wish they had two tiers of pricing and progressed on that basis. However, I digress.

The boat's host/MC came over to our table smiling, "How is your meal? Are you enjoying it?"

I looked up, smiled, and said, "The boat is nice."

James saw the slightly puzzled look on the face of the man and said, "We are having a great time. Thanks." The man walked away.

I looked at James and said, "thanks honey."

To wit, he replied, "You're welcome. I know you can't lie!"

With that one statement, my heart shot to the moon. No longer did the average quality of the food matter. No longer did the humidity or heat take it's toll. All was right with the world because I had the essence of what most long lasting relationships are built upon. I had the absolute and complete trust of my mate! He knows me! He knows my heart! He knows I wouldn't lie to him or others! That is such a major thing that many people take for granted, but don't realize is what unravels many marriages.

My husband knows that what I say, I mean, and what I mean, I say! There is no double speak, or trying to peel back the layers of innuendo to discover the true or hidden meaning.

I challenge you to speak to the heart of your mate, child, or family member. See the love on their face so you can make them smile today and enjoy laughing out loud with you daily!

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