Over the weekend we launched UNITY. Hundreds of people participated and there was one question I heard more than any other: "Why are you doing this?" My answer has to do with the acorn.
When I went through Georgetown's Leadership Coaching program, during the first session, an instructor talked about the acorn: While an acorn is small, it is packed with all of the potential of the mighty oak tree. The program promised to help us grow into a strong, solid oak that could generate enough seeds to grow a forest. It was our responsibility to spread those seeds and nurture human growth by taking our learning out into the world.
Throughout the program, I held this metaphor close. In fact, when it came time for the final essay, the acorn was my inspiration. I wrote about the responsibility we accepted by learning the craft of coaching and pondered how I would fulfill that promise. When I completed the program, I bought myself an acorn keychain. For the past three years, it has served as a daily reminder of my commitment.
By bringing projects like the Courage Wall and UNITY to life, I feel that I am fulfilling my duty to those who made such a meaningful impact on me. I hope to inspire others to grow taller and stronger and bring their own gifts into the world.
When I look at UNITY, alive with the energy of the community that built it, I'm reminded of the canopy of the mighty oak. It feels sturdy and safe. It moves with the breeze. It holds the possibility to generate seeds of thought.
What seeds are germinating inside of you?
Be confident that the DNA that rests in those tiny seeds is the same DNA of your mightiest embodiment. Nurture your seeds. Be patient as they sprout. And when it's time, stretch toward the sky and become the mighty oak you were always meant to be.
UNITY Updates
Haven't been able to participate yet? UNITY continues through June 12th at the open lot by 2213 Mt. Vernon Avenue in Alexandria, VA during the hours listed below:
- June 9th and 10th: 6:00pm - 8:30pm
- June 11th: 10am - 8:30pm
- June 12th: 10am - 5:30pm (with closing ceremony starting at 4:45pm)
Join us for a special closing ceremony Sunday, June 12th from 4:45pm - 5:30pm.
We will hold a community conversation to discuss what UNITY can teach us about ourselves and our community. By reflecting on the patterns we see and the experiences we've had, we'll gain new insights into who we are. We'll then invite everyone to conceptually and literally cut the ties to our labels (by cutting the yarn) and share a few moments of connection and reflection.
Business Day at UNITY
Join us on Thursday, June 9th for Business Day! Bring your team for a unique (and FREE) team building activity. Please pre-register so we can plan a special UNITY experience for your team.