Inspiring Leaders

Today I'm excited because the sun has come back.

And because I've been busy inspiring leaders

and being inspired by some of the best.

Yesterday I got to present to a group of young moms

who, sitting alongside of their mentor moms,

requested my Follow BE the LEADER workshop.

We ran through this acrostic I created for LEADER 

along with some reflection questions; 

I spoke for about 45 minutes before 

they reflected on the discussion guide {here}.

It was so rewarding to custom-design their presentation, not only for those who will be volunteering for leadership positions within the group, but for all of them regardless of whom and how they influence.

When I got home, I discovered that some priority mail

from my friends in Meridian, TX, had been delivered.

These beautiful notes and pictures along with a cute penguin scarf

were a thank-you gift for reading Penguin Flies Home

via Skype to them. And even sweeter than getting a package

was the loving kindness woven into the words of affirmation 

that complemented their epic sketches:

*I wish some day in my life I can meet you. You are amazing and I love your idea of being a hope dealer.

*My friends and I are all so blessed to have you as a part of our lives.

*I love that you took time out of your day to read to us when you could have been celebrating your husband's birthday.

*I love the way your positive energy is.

*When you were reading with us, I felt kindness warming my heart.

*You are my favorite person to Skype with ... I love how you read enthusiastically.

One letter sweeter than the next, it made me miss those beautiful, heartfelt love notes that my students used to write and draw for me.

I was touched by their thoughtfulness and thankful that they have a caring teacher who would carve out time to let them express their gratitude in this way. Mrs. Chandler, you are inspiring leaders who are warming our world with their 

kindness, passion, joy and love.

And although it's cold outside today, my school visit took me to Weber Elementary, a Texas State School of Character, where my character cam caught many warm moments like these:

A group of first and second graders writing

notes of positivity on these Starbucks sleeves. 

Won't that warm up their customers?

Teachers posted their vision boards alongside their

student-empowerment pick-your-greeting choice posters.

 And just look at this epic Fairness wall display.

Branding our schools (and lives) by design rather than default ...

now that's what inspiring leadership is all about.