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November 2012

Dear Friends,

The re-election

It is the morning after the election and I stayed up until 2 AM to be sure I knew who our next President would be. As I watched the television all those hours I was gratified to see enthusiasm and passion—this was not a lukewarm response to a challenge. It was a passionate and exuberant response to an opportunity to help shape a bright future.

My ancestor, John Adams, was the 2nd president of the United States. He was the only founding father who never owned a slave. When I think of our founding fathers, with all their differences, how they came together in a powerful way and built a country—a democracy—I think, how can we not come together and make every challenge an opportunity?

Now, the morning after, we learn the high percentage of women, young people, and ethnic racial groups who turned out and made this such a powerful, inclusive experience for all of us.

I am smiling this Wednesday morning even though they tell me today New York will be hit by a snowstorm at 3 o'clock.

Be fearless

I’d like to share a few notes on one of the highlights of 2012: TEDxMidAtlantic Be Fearless, hosted by the Case Foundation. Young, energetic people—all saving the world—gathered in D.C. October 26-27 to share ideas. No podium or lectern, no hand held microphones. Only a square red carpet, and a low stage I loved.

I decided not to be formal. I asked the audience if I could share with them the defining moment of my life that determined the person I am, the leader I have become. I asked the audience to think about a defining moment in their life while I spoke. Everyone has one.

The audience's response was so moving for me. Afterward, I caught the 2 pm train back to New York city, bought batteries, locked the door of my 48th floor apartment and came out 6 days later. For those still suffering in the wake of Sandy, my thoughts are with you.

Wishing you peace this November.

To Serve Is To Live,

Frances Hesselbein
President and CEO
The Frances Hesselbein Leadership Institute

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