As we look to celebrate Father’s Day on June 17, let’s remember that behind every great woman is a man. Whether it is a spouse, significant other, brother, father, or a dear friend, the men in our lives at one point or another have stood behind us and helped us in our desire to grow and achieve in our professional careers.
I know that for me, my dear husband, Earl, has been with me through it all. He was there when the building that housed my business, Terry Neese Personnel Services, burned down in the 1980s. Records were not computerized back then and everything had to be rebuilt from scratch. Earl lent support, guidance, and advice. He was there when I took over the helm at the National Association of Women Business Owners, when I became involved with politics, and when I launched this labor of love six years ago called IEEW. I can easily say that I couldn’t have accomplished all that I have without Earl’s strong shoulder to cry on and embrace success.
On the personal side, together we watched daughter, Kim, grow into a fine young woman and successful business person in her own right. And, we share in the joy that granddaughters Emily and Erin bring to us everyday. We also have had so many fun adventures, traveling the globe and experiencing all kinds of exciting and diverse peoples and cultures. None of these precious moments would have been as fulfilling if I didn’t have my beloved and trusted co-pilot with me. And, I do mean that literally, since flying planes is a passion that Earl and I share!
As women, we like to think that can do it all. And, very often we do. The ability to multitask and expertly handle work, kids, and households seems to be a part of our genetic makeup. We sometimes think it weak of us to acknowledge that we may need the help and understanding of the men in our lives. After all, for so many years, it was women who were in the background, as they baked, sewed, had babies, and watched from the inner sanctum of their homes as their husbands ventured out into the world to achieve great things. We stood behind them. Now, it is perfectly okay for them to stand behind us and for us to lean on them when we need a kind word or reassuring hug.
To my husband and the many other Earls out there, we honor you for all that you do for us. Thanks for worrying about us and keeping things running smoothly at home while we are on business trips in other corners of the planet. Thanks for attending conferences and events with us, even when you would rather be doing something else. And, most of all, thanks for having the confidence and security in yourselves to be able to take a backseat when necessary so that we can shine in the limelight.
Happy Father’s Day, guys!!
