VALOR class VI started year two visiting the Northern Neck of Virginia. I don’t know what it is, but there is something that always calls me to the water. It seems like the water calms my soul and I often find myself reflecting on where I have been and where I want to go. We arrived at our Airbnb after dark so I wasn’t able to see the water upon arrival. However, the next morning I awoke to the calm waters and the warm morning breeze calling me to enjoy my coffee outside on the deck overlooking the beautiful spot we based out of for several days. I found myself reflecting a lot during this seminar and even had the opportunity to see myself through the eyes of others.
By now, most of you who have read my blogs know that I am not a blogger and I often find myself giving more of a play by play of our session. But, today I find myself looking at a much bigger picture. So, I want to thank Healthy Harvest Food Bank, Parker Farms, Colonial Farm Credit and the Northern Neck Farm Museum, Omega Protein, Rappahannock Oyster, Kellum Seafood and Haynie Farms for an amazing few days, incredible fellowship and food, but most importantly for their contributions in helping me develop, learn and grow.
A lot has changed for me recently and the lessons I have learned throughout VALOR have allowed me to appreciate the things I have, understand that there are different perspectives, that there is often more than one way to accomplish a goal, often times you have to be flexible, and that connections and networks are really important. During each of our visits we learned that everyone has celebrated their successes and that everyone also weathered storms and adversity. Most would tell us that it was the decisions they made during adversity that helped them grow and become stronger. Most would also tell us that they couldn’t do it alone.
An example of flexibility during this session occurred when we discovered we were unable to participate in the Tangier Island tour due to weather. At first I was disappointed as this was something I was really looking forward to. However, the cancellation allowed us the opportunity to spend a little more quality time with one another. And, we were able to spend more time on professional development exercises. Throughout my life and career I have never spent much time on reflecting about how others see me. One exercise we completed really brought this to light and I am forever grateful that our leader, Megan, shared this opportunity with us. This one small fraction of time allowed me to see myself as others see me and not how I see myself, and really solidified I have added 11 new friends to my network. I know these people will be there to cheer me on and to help pick me up when I need it.
While I may not have given the usual play by play of our time spent during the session I hope whoever is reading this blog will take some time to reflect on where they are and where they want go. I have some big goals coming up on the horizon. I am hopeful the lessons I have learned throughout each VALOR session will help me across the finish line. If so, I know my network will be cheering me on. And, if not, they will be there to see me on to my next goal!
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