From GM Eddie Stone: Giving Thanks

Dear Members,

In times of crises, in times of uncertainty, in times of fear, there is one overriding emotion I have above all others. I am thankful.

I am thankful that my family, and our extended Waiora family, is safe from the devastating earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan. I am touched by the outpouring of support and selflessness that followed, showing the best of humanity.

And I am thankful that as the widening nuclear crisis unfolds, we offer natural health solutions that can help those concerned about its effects. It is in service to others that we discover life’s joy and purpose.

Sometimes it takes a seismic jolt to remind us that in nature, in life and even in business, the path we were on does not lead where we expected or intended. That can be scary. But for this too, we must be thankful.

Times of change or uncertainty lend us opportunity. A chance to stretch, to grow past the confines and contentment we let set in. An opportunity to do things we dreamed of once, but brushed off or chickened out of. There is courage in necessity.

I think of all the people I know who might never have gone into business for themselves had it not been for Waiora. Some of you may have gotten out of your comfort zone to do something different than you were used to. And for that, I thank you.

Perhaps Mark Twain said it best when he described a leap into the unknown compared to the deep sting of regret, “Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do, than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”

We are a nation founded on exploration. For all our Members who have dared to dream and discover, I am thankful. But I am not just appreciative of you. I am thankful for your families and the support they give you. The words of encouragement they offer to go ahead and start something new, assuring you that you have nothing to lose, and just do it.

I am thankful for the time your spouse or children give up to you on days or evenings when you make calls. And I am grateful they are there for you when you make a big effort to get to a convention, and need someone to provide childcare or look after the dog while you’re away.

The support of your family and friends makes it possible for you to realize your potential with Waiora, and for us to reach ours. This month, we are seeing record growth, in large part because of the efforts of those who got to Freedom U, and committed to action coming out of that conference.

If you have not recently thanked a loved one for their support, do so today. We do not need a special occasion to pause and give gratitude, many times just being there is reason enough. And when you get a bigger check from growing your business, make sure to celebrate together.

Some people think that a company is comprised of its physical parts. But I don’t believe that. I know what makes a company great is the people within it. That is why I am so thankful for you, and the passion and purpose you bring to everything we do. You are Waiora, and I am proud to partner with you.

I know that, thanks to you, who we are today is just the beginning of what we can become. Together, our future is filled with dreams and discovery.

Your partner,

Eddie Stone
GM North America