I -almost- cracked.
17-hour days, beating the clock to solve an evolving outbreak simulation threatening to take more lives- tested us beyond our limit.
I told myself-
“You shouldn’t be here.”
“You don’t belong with these REAL global health experts.”
“You’ll crack on your next deployment.”
At the end of the training, during our individual debrief session, I sat still, nervous.
“From our observation, you’re not just ready for deployment in an outbreak response, you’re ready to be a team lead.”
😭 I sat there, stunned.
“But my expertise is in Risk Communication & Community Engagement.”
“What makes a good leader?”
“Vision, fortitude, enthusiasm, empathy…”
“And which of those are defined by your technical expertise?”
“Oh my,” I said. “None.”
So often, we define ourselves by what we do. Yet, how often do we stop and ponder that WHO we are and are becoming matters so much more?
Perhaps, all those years of testing and crushing will, like an olive through a press, emanate a fragrant aroma of humility and leadership in your years to come.
“That’s what made you stand out- a moment of empathy when nobody saw the need for it. Also, you’re engaging, clear, efficient, enthusiastic. You speak well. You listen.
So the next time we have an international deployment, say yes. And remember, YOU’RE UP TO LEAD.”
😭
Thank you @cliff.tam, our girls and all of you for cheering us on 100%. Fragmentation, heartbreak and divorce are common among humanitarian workers but I’m grateful for all your love and prayers 💛💛💛