Within my class, we had several people from outside the United States including Chile, Brazil, Canada, Mexico, Pakistan, and Nigeria. I have been forever changed by this group of people. It makes me reflect on the entire experience yet again.
Many people have asked me about the class and what it is all about. Essentially, PMI picks 25 volunteer leaders from around the world to go through leadership training. Although each class is a bit modified from the last, we went through the SDI (Strength Deployment Inventory), a 360 degree review, and also received some top notch personal coaching. We also discussed several books and leadership methodologies. Throughout the experience, you gain tremendous insight into you. The class in the beginning is a selfish adventure, and for once it should be! As you begin to share the insights that you have learned, you begin to learn about the classmates around you. PMI makes this investment in the class with the hope that the 25 graduates then go out and motivate other great leaders to get or stay involved in PMI.
We met three times in person and several times over the phone. We first met in Orlando, FL. At the end of the first meeting, we were no longer strangers, but we had yet to become family. It wasn't until the second class in Scottsdale, AZ that I realized how much these people had gotten to me! I believe Jorge said, "It was like a Christmas party" The hugs, handshakes, and genuine fellowship the class had made the whole Scottsdale class amazing. The third class was in Washington, D.C. where we wrapped up.
After this picture was taken was a weird feeling for me. At this point, it was over. Class dismissed. All of the other times, the next meeting was planned out and we knew where we would see each other again. Once graduation was done, there were no more appointments. No more scheduled meetings. Just....done. I guess I am still processing that feeling.
We are now part of a distinct group of LIMC Alumni. We join the last 10 years of classes (roughly 300-400 people) and begin to build relationships with them. I just wish I knew, if ever, this group would ever be together again.
This picture goes on my wall in the office. It will remind me of the experience, the class, the investment PMI made in us, and of course my family.
Cheers to the LIMC 2010 Class 2. Forever in my heart!
May you find your life's passion,
Rick
