We just finished taping the 50^th Anniversary Tribute video. I stood across from each speaker as they gave their remarks, making eye contact to let them know that someone was there for them, listening. I do the same thing with speakers in class before they walk up to the podium, just to give them some company and moral support at that stressful moment. Only recently has it dawned on me that this ability and willingness to simply stand by someone- to really be with them quietly and attentively, even for a moment - is a leadership skill.

I see now how empowering it is to others to just be there for them/with them to keep them calm. And how affirming it is to know you have really helped someone simply by sitting and standing quietly alongside of them. I wish I had known this as a young mother and a young wife. I always assumed that if you were with someone you were supposed to be talking or interacting. Silly me. Well, I get it now, and I bring it to your attention in case you have been as slow to notice this as I was. So my holiday wish is that you stand by someone this season, and that someone stands by you: simply, quietly, present.