I visited a local chapter of the Make a Wish Foundation yesterday. One of my consulting clients had business to do there. This was my first time experiencing this organization, outside of what I've read. Someone should have prepared me.
As I walked in I saw portraits (photographic) of various kids. They all looked like what you'd expect from kids in their prime. I looked and couldn't stop looking. Not because of weird curiosity, but because I heard this symphony in my head. It was life playing beautifully.
I know that everything is not ok with kids who are helped by Make a Wish. I know, in many cases, their living out a song of goodbye.
Later in the day, after some time behind me, I was able to reflect on the power of my time with Make a Wish. I cried. The symphony returned again.
My lessons were simple:
- Life is lived now and not later. You don't have later, you have now.
- Be sensitive to the emotions seeking to come out. Have a cry over what breaks your heart.
- Don't miss the symphony playing all around you.
- Be very concerned about things or people that cause you to miss the moments.
- Every organization (profit or non-profit) needs a great mission, not a mission statement.
