Mike Elser, Chair Elect for 2012
The Winter Solstice occurs Wednesday, December 21 at 05:30 UTC. In the Northern Hemisphere, the Winter Solstice marks the longest dark of night followed by the shortest light of day of the entire year.
For me, this time of year is a time to reflect on the light and dark of the past year and to be grateful for the many gifts both bring. I continue to be impressed by the men in the MKP USA Community; men who live their lives filled with mission, passion, commitment and intention. With the passionate good work of many thousands of men across this country, MKP USA finds itself strong and ready to enter 2012 with the door wide open to great opportunities and greater possibilities. My want is that we each take a moment to breathe deeply into all that we have accomplished together. Indeed, we all have done good work.
I turned 64 last Sunday having been given many gifts – good health, a wife of 40 years, children, grandchildren and many dear friends to name just a few. With all of that, how wonderful it is to NOW have the opportunity to Chair an organization that can truly co-create a more conscious and compassionate world for all those whom I love. It fills me with joy and gratitude to consider it.
Imagine a world where men have the opportunity to learn how to traverse the transitions of life – career, marriage, fatherhood, elder-hood and more. Imagine a world where men and women have a place to heal the wounds of the past and an opportunity to truly understand the messages that emotional literacy brings. Imagine a world filled with children raised by emotionally literate parents who really understand integrity and accountability – parents who act with intent, compassion and wisdom. Imagine a world where young men have the opportunity to learn what it means to BE a man who models mature sacred masculinity; a man who can navigate the world with integrity; a man who takes responsibility for the results of his actions; a man who is awake, conscious and caring.
My 64 years have taught me this – what the mind can conceive and the heart can believe is truly possible. If you can imagine this world with me then WE can achieve it. Nobody said it would be easy. The great achievements rarely are. That is the great adventure we are on – you and me. THAT is the world we are building. I am filled with joy to be allowed to travel this path with you.
When I get stuck in the weeds of finances, governing documents, unification, Center Covenants, insurance, committee meetings and phone calls, let me remember to look up and be reminded of our GREAT ADVENTURE TOGETHER. When I get into heated conversation over the nits and grits let me be reminded of WHY we are doing this work together. When I feel fatigue and start wondering how it will ALL get done let me be reminded that you are by my side. We can do this together.
For the past 25 years the men of the ManKind Project have worked to Grow UP. It is now time for each of us to Wake UP to the opportunities that are in front of us should we have the courage to accept the challenge. It is now time for each of us who is willing to Stand UP and be counted as one among the many who have the imagination to see a better world. It is now time, for those willing, toShow UP and get to work. Yes, together we can do this.
In this Solstice Season, my want for each of you is that you take some time to reflect on the blessings in your life – your health, your family, your friends and more . . .
Wishing you a safe and joyful holiday season,
Blessings on our Journey Together
Mike
Charter Lifetime Member
MKP USA/New England Center
860-985-0013 Phone