Mary Doyle Keefe passed away this week at the age of 92. As the model for the famous Norman Rockwell painting called Rosie the Riveter, her face graced the cover of the May 29, 1943 issue of the Saturday Evening Post. She lived close to the painter who offered her $10 to model for the painting. Her response of “yes” is evidenced by the painting of a woman doing a “man’s” job during World War 2. She will live forever because of a simple “yes.”
She was in the right place at the right time: she lived near Rockwell when he needed a model. And she did it for a good cause: to highlight the role of women in World War 2.
Sure. If we say yes too often we run into trouble. Saying yes to everything which comes into our lives leads to over commitment and burn out. We need to exercise care when we say yes. Often the best thing we can do is to say no to the opportunities presenting themselves.
But this simple story about Mary teaches us a powerful truth.
There is GREAT power in saying yes at the right time, at the right place, to do the right thing. [Click to Tweet]
Last week my eyes feasted on the stunning red rocks of Sedona Arizona. Locals talk about the unusual vortex spots around town. A vortex is a place where you feel positive energy while standing near certain rock formations. (I never felt such a feeling!) If you ever go to Sedona you can pay a guide to lead you to the various vortexes around Sedona.
A vortex illustrates being in the right place at the right time.
But it isn’t enough to be in the right place at the right time. Here’s what we often miss: being in the intersection of right time and place creates a vortex of energy for doing the right thing.
When all the planets align and you find yourself at the right place and time, with an opportunity to do the right thing, do it. Don’t bat an eye. It’s your moment.
I’m challenging myself to look for the vortex of opportunity to do something good. I invite you to join me in the search for the opportunity to do good.
How will you know if you find yourself in a vortex of opportunity? I’m not sure. I don’t think an angel choir will sing in your ear or the heavens open up. But I think it will feel right in a powerful way.
When you are at the intersection of right place and time and the feeling of rightness comes, step forward with a loud yes.
Are you with me? Will you begin to look for the vortexes of opportunity?
I would be with you Randy, but unfortunately, all of the planets have not yet aligned for me at the right time and place. Thus, I have apparently missed several vortices of opportunities during the majority of my 60 years. I finally understand now why most of my life has been a flop. Perhaps I should journey to Sedona and stand on an energetic rock :)
Let’s make the journey together!