This week, the spirit of Thanksgiving came alive and I was reminded about the benefits of persistence and serving others with an attitude of gratitude. What happened? Keep reading.
Frank Guertler is the Director of the Center for Trades & Energy at the College of Southern Maryland. He heard me speak earlier this year at an educator’s conference. When Frank learned that my company was based in southeastern Pennsylvania, which is near Maryland, and of my offer to teach a soft skills class at trade schools where my curriculum is taught, he began inquiring about my availability to teach a class.
Unfortunately for Frank, my travels were far away from the MidAtlantic region. so while I was in Colorado, Alabama, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Texas and Tennessee, I sought other trade schools where I could teach a free soft skills class. It has been great fun.
All the while, Frank was persistent – he kept asking. His e-mails arrived in my inbox regularly. Frank’s relentless inquiries finally paid off when a Washington DC trip surfaced. Much to Frank’s delight, I taught soft skills at the College of Southern Maryland on Tuesday morning we all had a terrific time (see photo below).
Afterwards, as Frank treated me to lunch and as we shared a meal, he and I really got to kinow each other. We have similar family backgrounds and an affinity for good health and physical fitness. I felt as though I had known Frank for years, even though we had just met.
This Thanksgiving, I am mindful of life’s blessings and the relationships I am fortunate to share. I hope you feel likewise.
Happy Thankgiving!
Steve Coscia and Frank Guertler
