Inspired

Inspired by Mr. Rogers

I sat with my kids watching 'Mister Roger’s Neighbourhood' and nuclear war and race relations weren't the usual kiddie-show fodder, but they made their way into the safe space of 'Mister Roger’s Neighbourhood.' His friendly open way of being was inspiring and made such an impression on me.

When I watched Mister Roger’s in Vancouver with my kids, it inspired me. Mister Rogers friendly message got through to me as it did my kids, just by watching him, his silly singing and authenticity changed all of us, just being open and friendly.

As I turned 40 needed to make some changes, with the friendly support of a good friend I went to a self develoment program called “The Pursuit of Excellence” to take a look at my behaviour and results which at the time were not so good. During the workshop I heard the facilitator ‘Pggie Merlin’ speak about ‘Goodwill’ and how it impacts society. 

Happy Birthday Canada

During July 1st time we all go out of our way to be nice, helpful to strangers and to remember family and friends wit love. I thought it was sad it just lasts for the holiday period and then I remembered 'Mister Roger’s Neighbourhood’ and amazing example of quiet goodwill every day.

Goodwill Exists

Now, imagine that a piece of fabric covering the world represents “goodwill” each fine strand of that cloth represents a person. In some places it is evident that goodwill exists. The spontaneous help after the devastation of hurricane, or a firestorm, neighbours helping each other in the winters’ ice storm. I am sure you have experienced it, a stranger giving you a hand when you need it, a good friend steps up to help. And when your helping others spontaneously. Goodwill: It exists in small and large measure. Each of us are a single strand in the fabric of society.

In some parts of the world, it is evident that the fabric of goodwill is becoming unravelled, in Africa, Europe, Russia, Ukraine, and often in our own backyard and online. Where conflict exists its results are evident, death, destruction. People are damged and many orphans are created. So, how can I make a difference in this world? 

Making A Difference?

So the question I asked myself in 1985 was “how can I make a difference and help create goodwill and increase its’ effect?” I decided to make my personal mission was to strengthen people one person at a time, through my coaching and workshops and actions. When I strengthen one person, I strengthen a strand in the fabric and they strengthen those around them, by being a stronger person.

Making a one person at a time, Geoffrey

As always, I really appreciate that you are reading my post. Here, at LinkedIn, I regularly write about coaching, public speaking and communication issues and trends. If you would like to read my regular posts then please click 'Follow'.  

Always show up, all the best Geoffrey

The ZEN Coach

Geoffrey has over 25 years B2B experience. He has coached teams for 2010 Winter Olympic Bid, Rocky Mountaineer, Wavefront, Sandwell Engineering, FKP Architects, Telus and Stantec. Geoffrey taught at the Sauder School of Business, Executive Education, and University of British Columbia.