Sunday, we went to a birthday party for a two-year-old at a play facility. It had been a while since I had been around so many kids of a younger age. There were around twenty or so kids aged 18 months to 8 years old. At first glance there just seemed to be a lot of motion, much like bees flying around my dad’s old beehives.

Then I looked closer and saw purpose. There was a three-year-old venturing out on a small fireman’s pole – leaning into the pole yet unsure how to stop her fall. A familiar voice (her dad) said use your legs as well as your hands. She leaped and held on before slowly scooting down the pole.

As I was traveling around the room following my grandson on his exploits, I spied a young gal of almost two with a frightened look. She was halfway up a wooden swing combo structure when she realized or thought “I can’t do this”.  Moving over to her I could see the discomfort in her eyes. We stared at one another when I reached out my arms and lowered her to the floor. We looked at one another for a bit longer and I could see the look of appreciation (no words necessary).

In childhood, as in life and in banking, we face challenges. Sometimes we overcome these challenges with guidance (voice) from others. Sometimes we fail the first time (or the first several times) and need a helping hand. Yet in the end, we can rise to meet the challenge whether it is in the playground of childhood or the playground of life if we persevere and realize we have purpose and there is need.

We must keep trying, look for help when needed, and be reminded from time to time how important the journey is.

Have a great week.
– Leton

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“Letters From Leton” is a blog series comprised of the weekly updates that Leton Harding – President, Chairman, and CEO of Powell Valley National Bank, shares with the Bank’s team members. These newsletters are full of uplifting anecdotes and intriguing insights that are applicable beyond the Bank, so we want to share them with you.