I had the pleasure of speaking with a colleague this past week who is a female senior executive for a major Fortune 500 company, and she also teaches in graduate programs. We were discussing the key aspects of "accountability". Many of our students struggle with what real accountability means whether it is in our personal, professional or academic ventures. Without revealing too much, suffice it to say that my friend had countless obstacles in her path including less than acceptable relationships, financial struggles and of course, the daily challenge of finding enough time for her job, family and other commitments. Many of my students and clients struggle with these similar types of obstacles as well. So, who really can change the rules?
I contend that the only thing we have at our disposal is the ability to change the rules! The things that are going to happen, will! Therefore, we must adapt, be flexible and be true to ourselves, those we care about and those we have accountability to! It is about how we react; this is where the victim and victor come into play! I like to believe that it truly comes down to us; I believe we look in the mirror and reflect on whether we have done everything we could; exhausted all alternatives; and, made the best out of every situation (or do we fall back on; "why is this happening to me?").
This brings me to one of the best poems that I continually reflect upon and share with many people with whom I interact.....written many years ago (author is somewhat in question), I though I might share it here for those that may be interested....what does your guy (or gal) in the glass have to say??
The Man in the Glass
When you get what you want in your struggle for self
and the world makes you king for a day,
Just go to a mirror and look at yourself,
and see what THAT man has to say.
For it isn’t your father or mother or wife
Whose judgement upon you must pass.
The fellow whose verdict counts most in your life
Is the one staring back from the glass.
Some people may think you’re a straight shootin’ chum
And call you a wonderful guy,
But the man in the glass says you’re only a bum
If you can’t look him straight in the eye.
He’s the fellow to please, never mind all the rest,
For he’s with you clear up to the end.
And you’ve passed your most dangerous difficult test
If the man in the glass is your friend.
You may fool the whole world down the pathway of years,
And get pats on the back as you pass,
But your final reward will be heartaches and tears
If you’ve cheated the man in the glass.
Author Unknown (or unclear)
