Filling in the Family Tree

I have spent the last five days in Michigan visiting my mom and reconnecting with my brothers and their families.  Winter storm Jayden has delayed my return to Dallas.  For the second day in a row I received a text that my flight was cancelled.  I am warm, safe, and contented, other than having to stretch an extra couple of days out of the clothes I packed. It has been decades since I had to wait out a winter storm in Michigan. It is a reminder why we moved south; winter in Texas lasts a couple of days instead of dragging on for months

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I did have another item on my agenda this trip.  Our son-in-law, John Seale has been working on a family tree.  The branches on my mother’s side of the family are a little slim.  I was hoping to fill in some of the blanks.  I was not disappointed.  It is such a blessing that both my mom and my uncle, Don Ulbrich, have fantastic memories at ages 97 and 95 respectively.  My mom has trouble hearing, and can barely see, but get her talking about family or church history she has a fantastic memory.  This trip the stories just kept coming.  I spent six hours with my mom last Thursday and was never bored. 

I am reminded that the members of Generation Z (those presently teenagers and younger) have a real interest in the legacy of those who have gone before them.  They are motivated by a desire to grow from their experiences and in turn make the world a better place. 

I would encourage you to share your story with your grandchildren.  I think you will discover that while your own children are not that interested in your family tree your grandchildren might be more receptive.  I see a real hope in today’s teens and young adults. 

The Generation Gap Revisited

It is nothing new to talk about a generation gap.  As child of the 60’s, I was very aware that not only was my taste in music vastly different than my parents and grandparent but so were my views on many social issues and political issues.  The racial issue was probably the best example.  I was quick to see the lines of demarcation when it came to where Blacks could live.  I was well aware of the fact that when I went downtown there were certain shops and restaurants where Blacks were not welcome.  Most of my peers shared the same opinion.  We stood against racism and the Vietnam War.  For the most part it was “the radical youth” vs. “out of touch older adults.”

There is not denying that there is a generation gap today.  Millennials (roughly those born from 1980-1996) and members Generation Z (Born after 1996) tend to have much different perspectives not just on gender issues but on whether or not to build a border wall.  A new report from Pew Research defines the differences between today’s teens and young adults and Baby Boomers and members of the Silent Generation. 

The negative response to the issue of a border wall among today’s young folks is probably rooted in their view that racial/ethnic diversity is good for society.  According to the Pew Research survey 62% of Gen Z’s and 61% of Millennials believe such diversity is good for society.  That compares of 48% of Baby Boomers and 42% of the Silent Generation.  Member of Generation X are divided on the issue with 52% responding that racial/ethnic diversity is good for society. 

From my perspective there is one difference between the generation gap of the 60’s and our current generational divide.  Emotions ran much higher in the 60’s.  As a result the voice of protest was louder and actually turned violent at times.  Today’s young folks have very strong opinions on issues like racial/ethnic equality and climate change but they are also willing to listen and work with those who do not share their perspectives.  I sense a certain degree of respect and a desire to listen and learn.  It does, however, need to be mutual.

Are You Ready for Recess

Are you ready for Recess?  I am not talking about a break from the routine but rather a new beverage targeted at Millennials.  Seems like Recess has a lot to offer.  For starters, it is a sparkling water infused with CBD (government name: cannabidiol), a nonintoxicating hemp extract that is said to act as a pain reliever, anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory.  The drink also contains adaptogens  that are supposed to reduce stress and improve memory, focus and immunity.  While the company that produces Recess (owned by a Millennial, of course) is based in New York City, it is bottled in the Hudson Valley using natural spring water.  Those who want to enjoy Recess will have to pay a steep price, $29.99 for a six pack of 12 ounce cans.  If you are interested, you can check out their very entertaining website; https://www.drinkrecess.com/.

Before you jump to conclusions about the sanity of anyone who would pay almost thirty bucks for enhanced sparkling water, let me remind you travelers are willing to pay almost $3 to buy a bottle of water at your local airport.  The only difference between that water and the stuff that comes out of the tap is it is packaged in a plastic bottle with a trendy label.  I’ve always felt guilty drinking bottled water and can only justify it by looking for a recyclable bin when I am finished with it.  If none is available, I will carry it around the empty bottle till I get home.  If you doubt me check out the backseat of my car.  You can usually find several empty plastic bottles just waiting to be recycled.  

I guess I will place Recess beverage on the list of passing fads.  I suspect the owners are laughing their way to the bank.  But, let’s not be so quick to judge.  Somewhere in the back of my sock drawer is a Pet Rock that I paid $4.99 for in 1975.  At least you can drink Recess and probably feel better from it.

Herb Kelleher and Servant Leadership

Dallas icon and retired airline executive Herb Kelleher died last week.  If you do not know his name, you are sure to know the name of the airline in co-founded: Southwest.  It was his vision and spirit that gave way to low-cost air travel.  Herb was not only a creative, hands-on executive, he was a colorful character.  He was a chain smoker whose beverage of choice was Wild Turkey on the rocks.  Under his leadership Southwest grew from a regional carrier connecting three Texas cities to our country’s largest airlines.  Southwest Airlines is also consistently ranked as one of the best places to work.  They also are known for great customer services and having fun along the way.

My first contact with Herb Kelleher was in 1995.  At that time I was on the staff of the Texas District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS).  I was an assistant in the area of education and youth ministries.  I spent a lot of time on the road, most of it in Texas.  I became a Southwest Airlines frequent flyer.  On a particular Friday afternoon I was trying to catch a flight to Houston for a Saturday training event.  Love Field on a Friday is naturally hectic but on this day weather had really backed things up.  I arrived at the gate to find a long line at the gate.  The two customer service agents were doing their best to check people in but travelers were beginning to get frustrated.  Like magic, out of the crowd strolled Herb Kelleher.  He stepped behind the counter, planned a kiss on both female agents and then joined in checking passengers in.  After a few minutes things were under control and Herb turned to leave only to find amazed passengers waiting to shake the hand of the man who saved the day.  “I don’t have time,” Herb announced.  “It’s Friday and we are busy.”   Off he was to solve another problem.  It was the ultimate example of servant leadership.

In my mind that is Herb’s greatest legacy.  While he was a visionary, he was also hands-on executive.  He not only was visible in the terminal pitching in but on the tarmac loading luggage.   Herb retired in 2008 but readily admitted, “I’ve flunked retirement.”  He still maintained an office at the Southwest headquarters. 

That is what I learned from Herb Kelleher.  Be involved, stay active and make sure everyone feels welcome and appreciated. And no leader is too big to be a servant.