By Steven Drewes, Board President
Longtime sports broadcaster Pat O’Brien, told this story about basketball great, Michael Jordan.
While at an autograph signing session, Mr. O’Brien was accompanied by his young son. Mr. O’Brien, who was seated with the basketball star, was told by Mr. Jordan that his son could step to the front of the line to get his autograph. Mr. O’Brien told Mr. Jordan that he wanted his son to be treated like anyone else. His son waited in line about 1½ hours before he got to the table. After signing the autograph for the O’Brien boy, Michael Jordan turned to Pat O’Brien and told him that his son was the only person out of several hundred who said “thank you.” That little thank-you left a huge impression on a man who had received thank-you’s and praise for much of his life. I am sure Mr. O’Brien was very proud of his son, and a great lesson had been taught and learned in the process.
The Hausa people of Africa have a saying, “Give thanks for a little and you will find a lot.” I believe the above story illustrates this statement. If we probe our memories, all of us can recall a little thank-you offered by someone that meant so much at that moment.
A few weeks ago my wife and I attended Helping Services’ 14th birthday party celebration for Building Bridges Through Mentoring Program. It was enjoyable hearing the stories of young and older and the impact the mentoring activities have had on their lives. Many thank-you’s were expressed that evening.
During monthly board meetings, the Board of Directors has had the opportunity to listen to various agency staff people share with us the work that they do. We are truly thankful for them and all that they do.
Recently two new members joined the board. I thank them and all persons who step forward to carry out the mission of Helping Services for Northeast Iowa.
-Steven Drewes, Board President
