Memorial Day, My Daughters and My Thoughts.

Published by Robi | Filed under Ramble

As I gain another year of wisdom and perspective, or accepted lack thereof, I continue to appreciate holidays and what they stand for.  Today, the day before Memorial Day I am cleaning up after the whirl wind visit of my two daughters and noticed the bathroom floor after their bath. It had the front page of the New York Time business section, the latest issue of the Economist and the remnants of my girl’s morning bath. That is the dichotomy of my life. What does that have to do with Memorial Day you ask? Read on.

Memorial Day is the holiday we commemorate the US men and women who have died while in military service. For me recently it has begged the question “what have I done?” Having a Father who grew up in India during World War II and was extremely proud to become a United States Citizen might have skewed my perspective. He taught me that freedom was a gift and that I had the unfortunate privilege of never having to fight for my freedom. Meaning I have it, yet might never appreciate all that it is worth. For those of you who knew my Father, pretty consistent huh? Each year, watching America struggle in the global economy and the decline in the domestic quality of life, the knot in my stomach grows and continues to twist in a gut wrenching manner. It makes me continue to wonder “what have I done?”

My first five months of 2010 have proven to be the foundation for a landmark year. Where I have finally accepted the simple truth that only so much is within my control, and occupying my time on anything else is fruitless. So now as opposed to wondering about a variety of things and wasting time, I accept and move on. Take afterlife as an example, whether there is a heaven or hell no longer concerns me. I focus on being the best I can and providing the best life possible for my daughters and teach them to avoid the same dark winding roads and pitfalls (yes pitfalls) that I have traversed. I am content if my after life is only in their minds as thoughts of my Father still are in mine (I am so thankful that my Mother is only a, frequently used, phone call away).

For my career, I doubtfully will ever be placed in the situation where I am forced to give the ultimate sacrifice of my life. I no longer speculate how impactful my career will be or maybe (the curse of Destiny USA will always be remembered yet no longer addictive). No longer do I wonder if I am a good leader. Many great leaders are the ones who never knew they were leading, individuals who found the strength to preserve or the will and authenticity to inspire others. Our actions speak for us on a daily basis and over time define how we will be remembered or followed. As for me today, I have the privilege to appreciate that the greatest invention of my generation is sitting in front of me in the form off the Internet. To a minute degree I even contributed to it. It began taking shape as I began my career. I believe my future and legacy will be tied to it. Are we at war over it? No. However, I personally feel that I have an obligation to those who gave their life for this Country to value this gift. It would be a shame to cover my eyes to what is possible. I will continue to provide leadership towards the online efforts I am involved in. Where I can innovate, expand my mind, and collaborate with others to reap the benefits of our hard work. Is that not the American Dream that others fought for?

So tomorrow when my fingers are dancing on the keyboard, I will pause for a moment of silence and give the highest level of respect and appreciation for all those who gave their life for the freedom I now enjoy.