Take a chance.

Take a chance! You never know what will happen.

Have you ever believed in something so much that you wanted to take a risk? Have you stuck your neck out because your belief in something was so strong you would will it to happen? Have you ever said “what’s the worst that could happen”? Caution to the wind!

2 years ago, this week, I did just that. I was thinking of a new kind of fundraiser. We all have gone to chocolate events, auctions, and golf tournaments. I love them and attend many! But I wanted a new kind of fundraiser. An event that didn’t feel like a fundraiser. Something no other organization was actively doing in my area. On a whim, I emailed author Lee Cockerell. By now you know Lee is the former Executive Vice President of Walt Disney World and author of 4 top selling leadership books. I asked if he’d be willing to come to Coeur d’Alene. An hour later he, himself, emailed me back and 48 hours later contracts were signed guaranteeing payment. I had no venue and didn’t really tell anyone. I just believed so much to my core.

Over the course of 6 months I had a venue, more than enough sponsors, 1000 sold tickets to a completely different demographic who usually attended our events, I had a small-motivated and empowered committee and Lee, his wonderful bride Pricilla and business partner Jody Maberry in Coeur d’Alene for 2 1/2 days. His presence provided a powerful event that had a lot of positive feedback and didn’t feel like a fundraiser. 

The result of Lee’s appearance was far reaching and life changing. It raised money, and impacted people who heard Lee’s message and even empower all involved. Personally, I made new friends that have effected my life. 

Since this event, I became a consultant. The day I announced my decision , I was contacted by both Lee and Jody and they both offered guidance. Lee has been a text or phone call away for advice. I show my appreciation to Lee by sending he and Pricilla huckleberry pancake mix, huckleberry syrup and huckleberry turnovers from the resort. The turnover are a Cockerell favorite when they were here.

Jody, who lives in the west side of Washington, comes to Spokane often and we try to “break bread” when we can and has helped with my podcast. He’s become a good friend. Both have given me opportunities that I’m appreciative of.

You never know what will happen when you take a chance or risk. You could lose everything. Or you can believe in something so much you are willing to risk your reputation because you know it will succeed. You are so intoxicated in the belief that your idea will work. It also helps that this idea was also a chance to meet my favorite author who ends up being a friend. You never know.