September 15, 2005

WORKPLACE WISDOM NEWSLETTER

Katrina! Katrina! Katrina!

September 15, 2005

We've watched unbelievable television footage.

We've heard countless newscasters' accounts of the storm.

We've read emotional human interest stories.

I'm an educator - first. I'm a consultant - second. And both of these professions are

brimming with theoretical individuals. I'm one of them. My husband says that my

"theoretical" kicks in between 1:00 AM - 4:00 AM when I can't sleep and want to

discuss some difficult issue with him!

As an educator, I want to understand the "Lessons of Katrina". I want to

learn what we need to learn. I used to tell my children, "If you learn this lesson now,

you will not have to experience it again...or if you do experience it again, you'll

handle it much more easily in the future."

Theoretical people think - ponder - reflect - evaluate - question.

These past three weeks I have pondered, evaluated and questioned:

* What would I have done in those days of crises?

* Would I have been able to act in unconventional ways to save my family?

* Would I have panicked?

* Would I have been brave?

* Would I have cared for my fellowman while I, myself, was in physical danger?

So, here are TEN LESSONS I LEARNED ...

and in RED are my "action items"!

Some of them affirm what I believed already.

Some of these lessons are a result of watching behavior the Katrina catastrophe

initiated.

1. Even when we belive there is danger, we may not always act - and move

away from it.

I will move quickly when I sense danger.

2. In the worst circumstances, the collaborative spirit of our nation is

compassionate and helpful.

I will demonstrate my pride in being an American.

3. There are those individuals who try to unwittingly obtain personal gain

from another's tragedy.

I will protect myself and others who need me from those who would do me harm.

September 15, 2005

4. When we think we can't "hang on", we - in truth - can hang on a little bit

longer.

I won't give up.

5. Sometimes "time runs out" and sadly the cavalry arrives too late.

I will do all I can, every day, to surface the riches of life...while I have it to enjoy.

6. When I feel like complaining, I won't...because nothing I'm troubled by

compares to the anguish of the Katrina victims.

Very few people are interested in my small complaints...any day or any time.

7. Talk is easy. Blaming others is seductive; we "want" to do it...we're

drawn to it.

I'll see where I'm accountable first before I point the finger of blame at another

person.

8. Rather than live with a victim mentality, I will accept that my

circumstances - good or bad - are mostly a result of my choices - good or

bad.

I will continue to make the best choices I possible can make.

9. Individuals find their own way of contributing.

I have talents, certifications, and experience that I'll use to help others.

10. People are valued over possessions.

I will count my relationships that are in tact before I tally up my possessions.

God bless all those who are truly victims of this horrible

disaster.

Remember the Golden Rule?

"Do unto others as they would have you do unto them.

This teaching is embedded in all major religions and cultures throughout the

world.

I encourage you to do these three things:

1. Ponder YOUR LESSONS LEARNED these past three weeks.

2. Make an effort to begin applying those lessons in daily action.

3. Show your compassion and helpfulness everyday by adopting The Golden

Rule at work and at home.