I like to fish. Especially, fly fish.

But there’s something I like better.

I really enjoy teaching others to fish: to tie flies, build fly rods, to make a cast, a mend, a drift, a strike and a catch (and maybe release).

I like to catch fish—most any kind, or any size, sometimes “the big one.”

You might not believe it, but I enjoy even more, when people I love, or have invested in (spouse, grandkids, daughters, maybe even sons-in-law, etc.), do the catching. The joy comes with any kind, any size. But especially when they get “the big one.”

The same is true with leadership. There is great joy in seeing others around you grow into their own leadership style, strengths and accomplishments. Especially when you might have invested, at least a little bit, in them.

Bob Buford, in speaking of leaders said “…the fruit of our work as leaders grows on other people’s trees.” That kind of fruit is always in season. If I have the purpose to lead, it bears periodic reflection, “what kind of fruit am I cultivating?”

I’m grateful to the folks who made an investment in me, who influenced how I L.E.A.D.!

I’m thankful for everyone I see celebrating when they help to “grow fruit on other people’s trees.” We couldn’t ask for any more fun than that as we L.E.A.D.!