Colorado Commentary

I haven’t written for a few months, not because I haven’t had things on my mind, but because there’s been a lot going on. Certainly, there has been a lot to talk about: revolutions in the Middle East, the U.S. debt debacle, the riots in England, the cast of Republican presidential contenders, along with stories of unsung heroes working to improve our government, cities, and lives.

But, I live in Colorado, and the summer is a distracting time of year, but only slightly more distracting than the winter. Mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing, camping, nightlife, baseball games, etc., etc., etc. all make every weekend here a small adventure. While I was last hiking in the mountains, I reflected on how fortunate I am to live in this state and enjoy its beauty.

Colorado is marvelous. From the mountains to the people, every day provides new excitement.

A series of not thoroughly planned actions brought me to Denver, landed me a job that has evolved several times and that I continue to enjoy, and connected me with countless inspiring people. All I had to do was take a few small chances and show up along the way.

All of my experiences continue to remind me of my inherent, moral responsibility to make similar opportunities possible for others. What does that mean? How?

In terms of character, first, be willing. Second, be open-minded. Accept possibilities and opportunities. Third, be honest. Follow through. Don’t promise what you can’t deliver. Build integrity.

Listen and lead by example. None of us know as much as we think we know, and actions always speak louder than words.

Most importantly, take action. Do what needs to be done. Do what you love to do. Soak up this life and give all that you can back.

With that, I’ll close with my favorite quote: “This is the true joy in life- that being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one. That being a force of nature, instead of a feverish, selfish little clos of ailments and grievances complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy. I am of the opinion that my life belongs to the whole community and as long as I live it is my privilege to do for it whatever I can. I want to be thoroughly used up when I die. For the harder I work the more I live. I rejoice in life for its own sake. Life is no brief candle to me. It’s a sort of splendid torch which I’ve got to hold up for the moment and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.” (George Bernard Shaw)