125 years ago today . . .

For me, however, this date 125 years ago is most significant. You see, Edward William Snowbarger was born in a Kansas farmhouse.

For most, June 18, 1894 is an unremarkable day. If you check online calendars, you’ll discover Uganda was declared a British protectorate by Premier Roseberry. OK – now you’re ready for the next round of Trivial Pursuit. So what?

The first of Sam and Katie Snowbarger’s nine surviving children, my grandfather’s life was anything but unremarkable. He left a great legacy of leadership, tenacity, generosity and faith.

I wish you could have known him as I did. Oh, how I wish I could sit down and talk with him today!

But since we can’t, I thought I’d just reiterate the author’s acknowledgement from my latest book, The Accidental Intentional Board:

“I guess it’s in my DNA. Although I didn’t realize it when I began writing this book, my interest in governance began generations earlier. My grandfather, Edward W. Snowbarger, served on numerous boards. 

“Whether it was the local farmers’ co-op, regional colleges, or an international ministry organization, E.W. readily offered the steady-handed, level-headed, wise insight that guided all his life pursuits. There’s something about spending long days in the solitude of fertile Kansas farm soil that brings the clarity needed to cut through the fog of confusion that sometimes descends into a boardroom.

“But it didn’t end there . . .”

Most important to me is Grandpa Snowbarger’s legacy of integrity. All who knew E.W. were confident that his word was his bond. I strive to emulate that stellar quality every day of my life.

So my question for you today is, Whose legacy inspires you? Is there someone whose example spurs you on to become a better person tomorrow than you were yesterday?

If so, please take a moment to thank that special someone. Perhaps the most convincing thanks is to carry that legacy forward into the next generation.

I’ll leave you with a quote that reminds me of my grandfather:

“The supreme quality for leadership is unquestionably integrity.
Without it, no real success is possible, no matter whether it is on a section gang, a football field, in an army, or in an office.“

Dwight David Eisenhower

Here’s to your lasting legacy,