I was 15.  shy.  insecure.  timid.  nervous.  scared.

Standing over to the side of her busy ice cream shop, I waited patiently for an opportunity to inquire about a job.  I’m quite certain that I nearly bolted out a few times, but I needed to do this.  I wanted to work here.  I needed a job to earn money for college and I was going to stretch myself to branch out.

But she noticed me. This kind, outgoing, sweet woman noticed me.

That was 18 years ago, but I still credit Bonnie with being one of the most influential people in my life (outside of my family).  At a very critical season in my life, Bonnie noticed me.  She saw my potential and she drew it out of me.  Bonnie helped me believe that I could do big things.  She challenged me both personally and professionally.  She gave me responsibility beyond my years or experience.  She dreamed dreams for me that I would have never imagined.

18 years later I still call her friend.  Even though years will pass between opportunities to see each other, we pick right back up and laugh over old memories, inside jokes and dramatic staffing debacles.

My years working with Bonnie were critical in developing my gifts as a leader.  I really believe that those summers in the ice cream shop were the place where my leadership gift was cultivated and developed.  And for that I’m truly grateful.

I’m not sure that I can ever repay Bonnie for the investment she made in my life, but I hope that I learned well from her example and am able to influence someone in my life the way she influenced me.

Thank you, Bonnie, for your love, faith, belief and support of me!  You are a treasure and my life has been so enriched by you!

Who has had that kind of influence in your life?

If you live in the Nashville area, we’ll be sharing and celebrating some of your stories at our August event.  Submit your stories and mark your calendars for:

Wednesday, August 18th

7:00 AM

Cross Point Nashville Gym

We’ll also be sharing some stories right here on the blog.  If you are interested in submitting your story, please email cultivateher@gmail.com.

We would love to hear your stories!