A Little Help, A Lotta Love: The Gratitude Shout-Out

What would you think if I sang out of tune?
Would you stand up and walk out on me?

I love this song except for those first two lines. They sound all too familiar to my lizard brain. You know, the survival part that prefers to doubt than take a chance.

If we started the song with the next two lines, think of how different the world would be…

Lend me your ears and I’ll sing you a song,
And I’ll try not to sing out of key.

That’s all we’ve got to do: give the world our songs.  I appreciate you lending your ears to this blog each week. Truly, this adventure would not be thriving without help from my friends.

Here’s my favorite version of the song: Joe Cocker at Woodstock.  Much more compelling than the oh-so-sweet Beatles versions.  I love the part at 4:45 where the backup singers croon: “Do you need anybody?” And JC rips a scream that rocks me every time.

Can I give a huge shout-out to the friends who have helped me get by in the last week alone?

Michele Woodward, career strategist, my adopted sister, mentor with a wicked sense of humor
She told me to sing out when I needed to hear it.

David S. Cohen, branding guru, dear heart who gives excellent hugs, wise doodler
He talked to me about challenging people and how I either have to love or let go. I choose love.
(We also had a fun chat on his Blog Talk Radio podcast earlier this week.)

Maura Conlon-McIvor, creative spirit, social entrepreneur, meta-thinker
She encouraged me to dig deep and connect with legacy ideas.

Rick Brozek, graphic designer with a heart, amazing dad, extra mile go-er
He appeared at just the right moment and said yes when I really needed his design superpowers.

Diane Hunter, dedicated coach to overwhelmed parents, courageous activist, bringer of peace
She reminded me that I get to choose the energy of any situation.

Cath Duncan, incisive mind, daring creator, my favorite ankle-biter
She helped me get past clever into clear.

This was fun. I’m thinking a gratitude shout-out post will become a regular thing.

Who helped you this week? Let’s give ‘em all one of those huge Joe Cocker screams and tell the world what they meant to you.

Thanks, Friends.

Related posts:

1. My Backbone Soundtrack
2. Bring Your Pillow
3. Calling All Superwomen!