We all have that one holiday song that seems to stir something inside of us, connecting us deeply to our
higher selves.
For me, it's Kenny Loggins' rendition
of Please Celebrate Me Home
I first heard this song my freshman year of college as I drove home for Thanksgiving break anticipating the pot of my grandmother's home made pierogies awaiting
me on the stove.
Every year since then, it reminds me of just what a powerful source of strength and motivation my own
'celebrations home' have been.
Last week, as I heard the song on the radio for the first time this season, a fresh perspective hit me as I prepared to welcome home my college-age son for his freshman year Thanksgiving break.
Breaking apart the lyrics of the song opens up a leadership lesson that I believe we can all benefit from in terms of helping those that we lead manifest their best selves.
Whether we're welcoming our children home for a holiday break.....a veteran home from service abroad.......or, a professional road-warrior back from a grueling business trip......the power of 'celebrating someone home (or back to the office)' is all the same!
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Please, celebrate me home...
a humble plea that asks to acknowledge the joy of reunion. A validation of connection - 'I'm home', 'I'm back', 'I'm here'
a declaration of presence that anticipates a reaction.
Come on and play my music.....
Remind me that I do have a 'song' . Show me that my music is on the playlist here at home, or in the office.
Whenever I find myself too all alone,
I can sing me home...
There are times when the road gets tough...and I forget my own song. Remind me through celebration.
But, I'm bound to roam
As much as I love coming home, it's in my blood to roam. I know that. It's who I am and it's how I deliver my own personal value to the world.
Please Celebrate me home
Remind me of the greatness within me....
I need that.
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Celebrating anyone home is leadership that honors the soul.
If you've ever been celebrated home....you get it.
If you're in a position to celebrate someone home....
you are blessed.
Honor that blessing.
Thanks for sharing your Second Cup with me,
Mike
