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Up with Praise
“Anything in any way beautiful derives its beauty from itself and asks nothing beyond itself. Praise is no part of it, for nothing is made worse or better by praise.” Marcus Aurelius
Praising my team is beyond my puny abilities!
Ruminating on my colleagues here at COC, I am overwhelmed with my limitations. Where can I find the words to capture the extraordinary talents and sensitivities of those two young whippersnappers, Justin and Bob. Even my exquisite perception and matchless skill is challenged. I am reduced to despair at the daunting feat. Only the soothing words of Marcus Aurelius can give me comfort as I stare at the blank screen in front of me searching for words that are adequate to the task. Still, there is nothing left but to try. How should I begin?
I will start with Bob
Bob, the newest member of the team struggles with the boisterous, egotistical enthusiasm of his tender years, assenting that he can do anything with great bluster and energy. The foolhardy energy of youth is a wonderful thing to watch as it beats itself against stone walls. If young people didn’t have it, their constant failures would surely cause them to give up. No need to worry about Bob. Bob shows great potential if he can retain that energy and temper it with wisdom as the years wear down those rough edges. Ah to be young again!
And, of course, sensitive Justin
Justin is another kettle of fish; a horse of a different color or perhaps another breed of cat. He too suffers from the handicap of youth and inexperience but unlike Bob he is a sensitive and introspective stripling, immersed in poetry and music when he isn’t changing diapers or perfecting the haunting chime of his kettlebells. These pastimes provide him an escape from his humdrum existence as a stay at home Dad with four kids. My hope for Justin is that sleepless nights from his newborn and the impending teenage years for his oldest will help give an edge to Justin’s mellow musings. As I have learned, everything improves with age and none of us is getting younger, even Justin.
And me- I do what I can for these youths
Because of my generous and positive nature, I can only praise and encourage these youngsters. It isn’t in me to criticize and chasten. I believe in my team and their potential. But I can only do so much. It is beyond my power to glorify. I can only encourage and inspire. But maybe you readers can help here. I know that despite their flaws you appreciate Justin and Bob and want to see them grow to their full potential. Perhaps you have some advice to assist them in their growth and development. I know they will appreciate your good wishes and encouragement and I sure get tired dragging them along here at Coots. Anything you cant do to put a cattle prod to their evolution will earn my gratitude. Leave a comment and help them with their development. On behalf of the team, I thank you.
Ralph, you’re just an old Smart Alec, and therefore a great role model for these kids. Like catching the measles as a child, just being in close proximity to you will infect them with your wit and clever way of saying things.
Hansi,
One can only hope.
They’ll learn by osmosis. You know you’ve done it right when they do something completely cootish without realising it.
Heather,
This mentoring is such a burden. I hope you are right.
It always is, but supposedly its fun too. Maybe I need better mentees.
Ralph, I wanna be like you when I grow up. Maybe. If I grow up.