Juanita hits the trails, where sharing the paths with other runners even involves giving and taking
This headline came across my computer recently (through an online article by Convene /PCMA) and it caught my attention. What am I? The answer to this is rather like those ever popular DISC personality quizzes of yesteryear – are you Dominant (D) or Influencing (I) or Steady (S) or Compliant (C)? I remembered that if you over think the question you either will never answer it or will second guess your response. So I promptly answered “giver” with an occasional “taker” moment.
The article goes on to say that the person to best respond to this question about you is someone that you interact with. With a bit of searching I found someone who I knew would be honest. “Giver,” she said. When asked for a specific example, she reminded me that I had commented about an insight that I had shared with her. I’m just picking up running again and found myself always hugging the right hand edge of the running path – almost like I did not deserve space on the path. When I recognized this I began to move more to the center of the path, leaving ample room for those passing me in either direction (remember I said I am just picking up running again) but still granting me room to be there.
Recognize the difference between a giver and a taker (as well as giving and receiving) and why we function in any of these positions. When we take it is for our gain. When we give it helps or assists someone. When we receive it allows someone to give or assist us. I think that we should be in a position to occasionally receive or else no one can ever give. So keep your pipeline of giving flowing and remember to allow it to be in a position of receiving.
"...You will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.”
To me, this is a strong basis for morals, faith, work ethics, and yes, even running. If I don’t allow someone to assist me on the running paths I will never improve, but with their assistance my pace will pick up and my endurance will increase.
As a Convention and Visitors Bureau representative, I have a lot to give to you. I can offer knowledge of my community, activities already scheduled during the time you are considering your event, availability and rates, and stellar customer service that is second-to-none. Working with a CVB provides a one-stop opportunity for your benefit, and it is all complimentary to you. So allow me to give to you. You can pass this benefit forward to your attendees with a quality event.
One of my favorite quotes is from Audrey Hepburn. She says, “As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.” Reach out to those around you and help each other on the path of life.
