It was a little over 15 years ago that I first asked the question, “What’s happening to this country?” I was serious—and a bit scared.
I noticed it first with my family. We grew up with the same values but could no longer discuss issues without things flaring up. Friends told me they faced the same problems.
We all felt powerless to do anything about it… and a bit self-righteous about our own perspectives. But that doesn’t help anything.
I was talking to one of my neighbors. We knew each other well. Her views on some issues were very different from mine, so we kept our conversations in the “safe” zone. Our friendship was more important.
Somehow that day we ended up talking about a hot topic—and, depending on which news channel you watched, you probably heard a very different perspective.
At one point, for some unknown reason, I said, “You know, I’m just one of those million in the middle who believe …”
I was shocked when she replied, “So am I.” We talked a little longer, then I left to continue my walk.
All I could think about was the power of “millions in the middle.” It reverberated in my brain. Finally, I bought the domain name so I could start a new website.
But instead, my career got in the way. I was on a mission to share my expertise with the sales world. Over a 10-year period, I wrote five books and was invited to speak around the world.
But instead, my mission to share my expertise with the sales world got in the way. Over a 10-year period, I wrote five books and spoke at conferences around the world.
And during that time frame, something told me to buy another domain name: WhatsReallyPossible.com
As I thought about “Millions in the Middle,” I envisioned a major movement, chapters around the country, fundraising initiatives and more. It was a big job—and I knew it needed my entire focus.
Then in 2016, my personal life went through a major upheaval. It took a few years to adjust to the changes. When I was finally ready for a fresh start, I knew it was time for my “Millions in the Middle” initiative.
I immersed myself in tons of books so I could have an in-depth understanding of the issues and challenges we face. But something wasn’t clicking for me. Every time I sat down to read one, my eyes glazed over. It was like reading an advanced physics text—and I never liked physics.
I was really discouraged. I felt that "Millions in the Middle" was what I was called to do at this point in my life—but couldn’t get any traction.
Then one day, it hit me: I still owned the “What’s Really Possible” domain. That's felt so right. I love to start new things and spark people into action. I love to help others discover fresh solutions to the challenges they’re facing. And I find it life-giving to be “in service” to something greater than myself. It invigorates me.
I hope you’ll join me in making this world a better place for all!
P.S. Many thanks to calligrapher Maura Lynch, for the beautiful quote above. To view her website and gallery, click here.