Independence and self-reliance are two words that I have lived my life by.
An only child, at boarding school from six years old, the greatest influence in my young life was my grandmother, who used to say God's gift to us is ourselves; what we make of ourselves is our gift
to Him.
It was my mantra for self-determination.
It also set the scene for a career built on setting up new divisions for companies, then trouble-shooting, and finally coaching - always working alone.
I became a pioneer used to forging new territories and going where no one had gone before making decisions and driving outcomes in isolation.
It is interesting that at this late stage of my life I have chosen to take on a challenge that, to be successful, is totally reliant on the efforts, generosity and magnanimity of others.
I can suggest, initiate, persuade, cajole, assist, encourage, massage and manipulate, but ultimately have no control over the outcome.
What have I learnt?
To surrender a lifetime of such ingrained habit and rely totally on faith is simultaneously terrifying and exhilarating.
But I believe life is a journey of self discovery, of pushing parameters, challenging belief systems and continuing to grow through experience and exploration.
By standing aside and allowing the flow, I am creating an opening that is being effortlessly filled by countless people who have responded to something that is bigger than all of us.
Raising $2 million (within 2 years) in a community that has severe financial drains and commitments is not something that was ever considered to be easy.
We first had to overcome preconceived misunderstandings, moral and ethical issues of people who believe the money should come from some other established source, such as the Government or other abundant coffers.
Then educate and prepare the community by clearly establishing that we are not associated with the Cancer Association, Hospital Board, or other government body.
It required giving Project Hope a profile and telling a human story in order to bring about attitudinal change.
Is it happening? Hell yes! One way or another, through numerous sources, everyone in our community knows what we are doing.
Every school, organisation, club and association, every corner store, has accepted the challenge, taken up the cause and are all doing their bit. If you have any great fund-raising ideas or want to make a contribution call me on 571 1631. Donations call 09004GOOD or leave your donation at any Westpac Bank.
Fundraisers:
* Lion & Lioness Raffle
Tickets available at Bayfair.
* Bayfair 4Hope
Shopping Reward Cards
* Tauranga Retailer specials: Maison Monique, Zero to Hero, Bravo Cafe, Brian Molloy Menswear, Smiths Sports
Lynette Davies is Chief Executive Officer of the Bay Health Foundation
Independence and self-reliance are two words that I have lived my life by.
An only child, at boarding school from six years old, the greatest influence in my young life was my grandmother, who used to say God's gift to us is ourselves; what we make of ourselves is our gift
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