More on 2.0

I have not written in a while. My recovery from heart surgery is going remarkably well, and your well-wishes, cards, and support have been received and deeply appreciated.

Rehab is not just a physical activity. As I reflected and shared with you when I was in the hospital, I am feeling the challenges of creating version 2.0 for the back nine —or, as my forum buddies remind me, the last 4 or 5 holes.

For the first time, the words “In the time I have left” carry real weight. At 72, I would like to think another 20 or 25 years are possible, but one thinks of one’s ability and capability on the back nine, and thus of priorities and actions.

I have worked since I was thirteen. While not full-time, I see no reason to stop, simply different work. Margaret Mead once said, “I know I will die; I will just never retire.” I like that.

I have been married for 46 years, and like all of us, we have made some wrong turns; the trip was one I never could have imagined. Time together, doing what we want, is a priority. We have folks we travel with and enjoy, and I see some more such travel ahead. Time with family —the next generation, their expanding families, and pets, both ours and theirs —is a treat we love and look forward to.

One of our common desires is to give back. We have been blessed to serve in several capacities, and as long as we can, we will continue to do so. Our tradition speaks of time, talent, and treasure as something to share, and I would add drive impact.

What I enjoy most now is being a coach, collaborating with individuals and organizations, sharing my scar tissue and lessons learned, and challenging them to get out of their comfort zone. Seeing their success becomes my success. I would suggest that there is an opportunity for real impact as a listener, questioner, guide, and coach. One is reminded of the lesson, “you can give a man a fish, or you can teach him to fish “, creating lasting impact is how legacy is built.

Then there is fly-fishing. I have often written in Muddy Boots about the power of being off the grid —in your waders, in a cold, freshwater stream —making a solid cast and getting a rise. I love my church, but there are many cathedrals. Time spent on the water with friends and family is sacred.

2.0 also includes laying down stuff. Being comfortable with your history and excited for the road ahead. You cannot do much about the past, but you can do much about the future.

Muddy Boots has always been about two questions, both to individuals —employees, customers, family, friends —and now, in 2.0, to yourself. How are you doing? And what can we do better?

The answers drive everything.