New Chapters and Second Chances (Substack Writings)

A surprising, heartbreaking confession, a new chapter, and second chances.

Years ago, a highly-respected, highly decorated senior leader of ours stood on a podium and was raw and honest with a room full of young, ambitious, up-and-coming leaders about one of his toughest lessons.

A Surprising Confession: A Heartbreaking Lesson

And he said something I’ve never forgotten:

I chased every deployment, every promotion, every tough job — believing my family would still be there when I was done chasing. But in the chasing, I left them behind. And they had no choice, but to leave me behind.

So as you start to climb the ladder, and rise in the ranks as we train you to, I want you to remember what matters most to you. And I hope you spend time figuring that out for yourself. And avoid paying a price you and your loved ones should never have to.

What Matters Most? 

And I remember as he said this, my heart broke for him. I would’ve never expected a senior leader of his caliber, with his crisp uniform, booming voice, and chest full of medals and accolades, to stand in front of a group of young people, and express something so honest, so vulnerable and so heartbreaking. And yet he did, for our benefit. And I’m deeply grateful he did.

Because now, as a new chapter beckons, full of big plans, big ideas, and big vision, I now ask these same questions of myself:

What matters most to me?

How will I protect and honor what’s most important as my new story unfolds?

Stepping Into The Unknown: Heart Open

I don’t know what this new chapter will look like. I sense I’ll be asked to do much, to face new demands, new pressures that I’ve never experienced before. And that’s ok. Because I know one thing: I’m walking in with my eyes open, my heart wise, and my mind clear on what matters most and what I won’t sacrifice again as I follow what I’m guided toward. I don’t have to choose greater callings over loved ones. Both matter. Both can go together. And this time, I’m protecting both.

To new chapters and second chances. ~ C 🤍

Questions for You: What matters most to you? What are you protecting as you walk toward what’s next?

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