By Barb Kachelski, CAE
My f
riends and family know task orientation can be my strength and my weakness. Adjusting to the seven-hour time difference between CUES offices and Barcelona, the site of CUES' newest institute, DLI II, I had an opportunity to reflect on the power of long-term vision with a visit to Temple Expiatori de Sagrada Familia.
The foundation stone for this church, dedicated to the Holy Family, was laid in 1882. Breathtakingly large, yet incredibly detailed, the church will not be finished for decades.
The architect credited with designing the church is Antoni Gaudí. He prepared models for the church reflecting his unique style, incorporating themes and shapes from nature to complement the religious themes showcased on the exterior walls. While he realized he would not live to see the project's completion, he shared his vision through small-scale models that are used by workmen today to lovingly give life to his vision. When he was asked if the project's lack of completion bothered him, he replied that the general contractor (God) was patient and had time to wait.
Sagrada Familia has inspired millions already, and will no doubt inspire millions more before and after its completion.
As my friend and mentor, Linda Johnson, reminds me, I need to slow down. Gaudí effectively reminded me of the same thing this week. Do I take sufficient time to think big picture? Do I share my passion for CUES and the credit union movement with co-workers, members, and people in general with the frequency it deserves? I'd best put both of those items on my list of things to do (right now!) … and keep them there.
Barb Kachelski, CAE, is SVP/chief information officer for CUES.
