2020: Note 42 - The Encouraging Guide

When people talk about diversity and inclusion, the word journey comes up a lot. People say that they are on a journey to increase their understanding of those who are different from them or have different experiences. There are many dimensions to diversity -- gender, race, religion, ability, and sexual orientation, to name a few -- which means each of us may be on multiple journeys.

The beauty of these journeys is we don't have to take them alone.

There are many people who have been, and continue to, help me learn and grow. One person I particularly appreciate is a man who has a unique ability to make me pause and think. He is an uncanny observer who points out subtle things that others might not notice. And, he does it in a way that doesn't put people on the defensive.

I am so appreciative of the many times he did this for me, telling me about something he noticed in conversation or team dynamics, giving me the space to absorb and consider. He recently left the company for a new position, and I expect he will be a strong guide and advisor for his colleagues there, as he has been for me over the years.