Grace in the Grocery Aisle

The Call That Changed My Perspective

On Friday, I was grocery shopping — juggling my list, my thoughts, and the usual background hum of a busy mind. Then my phone buzzed: “New Milford Public Schools Calling.”

That number always makes my heart skip a beat. Any parent knows that feeling — the rush of questions that flood in before you even answer. Is something wrong? Did something happen? I immediately braced myself, preparing for whatever news might be waiting on the other end.

But I was standing in a store with terrible service, so I let it go to voicemail, figuring I’d call back once I was done. A few minutes later, I listened. And this time, it wasn’t a crisis or a question — it was good news.

A teacher from Allie’s school was calling to share something positive, to tell me about something she had done well. And right there, in the middle of the grocery store aisle, I cried.

Not because of the message itself, but because of everything it represented. Every time that number pops up, my mind automatically jumps to worry, to problem-solving, to “what now?” But this call was different — it was a reminder that even in the midst of all the chaos, there are moments of light. A reminder of how resilient Allie is — adapting to a new school, a new grade, new friends — and how sometimes, the universe sends us exactly the message we need, exactly when we need it.

A Shift in Seasons — Personally and Professionally

This story might not seem connected to leadership at first glance. But for me, it marks a pivotal moment — one that perfectly parallels where I am in my career right now.

I’m standing on the edge of something new. A new chapter. A new direction. A new journey that’s both exciting and a little bit terrifying — which is why I’ve started reading The First 90 Days, a book recommended to me not long ago, by a mentor I deeply respect. It’s all about how to find your footing and thrive when stepping into a new role or organization.

Now, if you know me, you know I love a good audiobook — especially on long drives when I can get lost in thought and reflection. But this time, I decided to buy the hard copy too. Because this isn’t just a book to listen to — it’s one to work through. To highlight, to annotate, to carry with me as I build the next version of who I am as a leader.

And let me tell you — I’ve barely scratched the surface, but already I can feel its relevance. It’s not just a roadmap for a new job. It’s a framework for transition — for moving through change with intention and grace.

Embracing What’s Next

So no, Allie’s story isn’t directly about leadership. But it’s about the many topics I talk about on the regular, growth, resilience, and finding light when you least expect it — all things that define strong leadership at its core.

Because just like that phone call reminded me to pause and appreciate progress in the middle of chaos, stepping into something new reminds me to trust myself — even when it’s uncomfortable.

There’s no better time than the present to stand tall, take a breath, and say, “I’ve got this.” And it’s okay to need a little help along the way. Navigating transitions — whether personal or professional — is never simple. But the beauty of it all lies in the process: learning, adjusting, and remembering that growth rarely feels easy when you’re in the middle of it.

So here’s to new beginnings. To the unexpected moments that remind us of our strength.
And to believing — deeply and fully — that even when the path is unclear, we’re still exactly where we’re meant to be.