We never know how we will impact the lives of others when we start a relationship with someone, whether it is business, professional or a mixture. Only time can tell, or show us this, and sometimes we are never made aware of the impact of using our authentic voice has on others. Or the impact our “seemingly small” life had on many.
Yesterday I attended a Rosette Ceremony at Margraten (Netherlands American Cemetery) for David Rosenkrantz who was Killed In Action in 1944 and finally identified and buried with his brothers in California in 2018.
As more than 20 people gathered for the ceremony, I was reminded again about the Power of One. Please watch the video and then scroll down to read more.
David’s Power of One
Many of us commented after the ceremony and during the luncheon, that David would probably be amazed that he brought together so many different people. Dutch and Americans. Civilians and some active 82nd Airborne personnel. The living and the dead.
All were in attendance at the cemetery yesterday. His life which ended in 1944 fighting for our freedom and that of Europe, still has an impact 75 years later. David’s spirit lives on through his nephew Phil and all of us who were in attendance, those who contributed to Phil’s work, and those who will read his book once it is published. The research and writing Phil has done to learn about David’s life and honor his death is certain to inspire someone else to follow a similar path to learn about their family member in the future.
Your Power of One
Thinking about the Power of One as I talked about in my video, I was reminded that my work has tremendous value, even if I never know how it has affected someone else’s life, their family, the dead, or the future. Many people have the point of view that they must speak to thousands and be famous to make an impact. I have never believed that. I have seen how helping just one person find the answers to their family secrets and stories, helping them find answers and closure, and heal on some level, changes everything. Not only for them but also me. Each of us, speaking authentically, become the Power of One to spread the word in some form or fashion.
Yesterday, Phil spread the word about the work I do with families, military research, PTSD, healing, and all that is related to this, in his few moments to present me with a photo of David. His beautiful and generous words reminded me that the work I do is valuable and will stay with me in times when the work becomes too emotionally difficult or I am unsure where to turn next for help so I can continue helping my clients and those I interact with.
Who knows where else his words will ripple out or who might enter either of our worlds asking for help. Maybe we will never know.
What is YOUR Power of One? What gifts and knowledge do you have that you share with the world? What gifts are you afraid to share with the world or do not see as valuable? I challenge you to sit with these questions and explore how you being your authentic self in life and business can help change the world one life at a time.
I would love to hear your thoughts on this and how you have impacted someone’s life or someone has impacted your life. Please comment below.
Can I help you?
Are you ready to learn the bigger picture of your family member’s military service? Would you like to see what is included in unit records for your soldier? We are taking new clients and can help you find the answers and tell a deeper story about your family member. Email us at info@wwiirwc.com to set up your free phone consultation today to discuss project options, fees, and time.
© 2019 World War II Research and Writing Center
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