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Greetings!
"You can never cross the ocean unless you have the courage to lose sight of the shore."
-Christopher Columbus
October is easily one of my favorite times of the year. The fall crisp breeze has such a wonderful, and magical spirit about it. The children have transitioned into their classes, and there is a newness in the air. As the days have cooled off, and the beautiful foliage has appeared across our New England region, we prepare ourselves for the first frost and cold winter months.
October represents a very magical part of my personal life too. My first son Christian was born in October, and is one of my most significant blessings I have in my life. I can't believe that this month, my son Christian turns 21 years old. I remember Christian as a baby when I opened Allure Spa in 1994. He was just one and a half when I opened my business and started to care for and take after my employees. I always made many sacrifices throughout the years, juggling family and looking after Allure Spa.
In recent conversations with my son, we have reflected on the past 21 years. Many nights of his childhood, I had to attend to work matters and not be there some evenings for dinner and homework responsibilities. However, he has always respected that I had many things to take care of and thought I set a great example for him, and exhibited strong leadership throughout the years. I am so thankful for my two sons understanding all these years at Allure Spa. I am so very excited to celebrate Christian's 21st birthday this month!
As I personally reflected on these past 21 years, the term leadership has many interpretations for me. Personally, I have found that I've taken a leadership role in my business, in the local community, with my mission work, my family and in my faith. Many days, I don't know how I accomplish it all. At times, it can seem very tiring, overwhelming, and discouraging to achieve daily tasks while always uplifting and encouraging those who I take care of in my life. Fortunately, each Sunday, I am able to attend church where I have my spirits lifted, and feel refreshed for the upcoming week.
I appreciate that I am able to be the one that many come to for love and support. It makes all the little struggles and hardship worth it, when I can reach out to others. I align my beliefs with my faith by serving others, and not to be served.
I wanted to acknowledge leadership that I have witnessed throughout my journey as well. I wanted to recognize the local leaders in the community, politicians, our faithful leaders, and even the leaders I observe in my staff on a daily basis. I am always amazed by the Allure Spa staff and how they always take initiative in our organization. Completing the Allure MedSpa, and undergoing new education for the newest innovative services, has shown great principle in the business. I am so grateful that we have such a great team!
I always refer to leaders as the light that help guide us in our own experiences.We celebrate Columbus Day in the month of October to honor the man who led the expedition that discovered America. Christopher Columbus is just one leader that demonstrated several remarkable traits that are just as applicable today as lessons in business and leadership effectiveness as they were more than five centuries ago.
This month, I wanted to reflect on how these past 21 years were possible for me in my business, personal life, family and in my faith. I wanted to anonymously recognize those who have shown a great judge of character, and have impacted my life as well as the lives around them.
Thank you to all who have shown their leadership, made a direct impact in their community, all while touching people's hearts in their daily lives!
God Bless,
Sandra Ishmael
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