Fellow agents & AR Members - I am truly humbled by my experience today at the Fonville Morisey Awards Banquet this morning.  I am honored that I grew my business substantially over last year, but I couldn't help but thinking that I haven't done enough.  The entire reason I got into this business is to help others and to give back to the community.  Other than my sales results, what have I done to give back to the community?

On the other hand, for selfish reasons, I was disappointed that I didn't reach my target.  When I set goals I achieve them.  This year the market wavered and I didn't quite reach my stretch goal.  Yes, I'm doing well by others standards, but not by mine.  Maybe I didn't work hard enough, accomplish enough.  I've certainly had my ups and downs in this business.  I'm no different than anyone else. 

Today, there is someone that stood out beyond all others and touched my heart in a very strong way-Phil Ficks.  I've worked a couple of deals with this gentleman and we connected instantly - I've been an avid bike rider and runner for many years.  However, the past couple of years have been challenging me with business, a teenage daughter, and other things going on in my life.  Phil has been such an inspiration - full of life, love, laughter, and dedication to the sport!! A pleasure to do business with.  However, as I understand it, Phil was in a terrible bicycle accident on 12/10/2007 and is now confined to a wheel chair.  A man, dedicated to sport and exercise, is now unable to be the kind of person he would want to be - who this person is - the person we all know and love. 

And yet, Phil came to the FM Awards ceremony in dignity and accepted the many awards he deserved for his success and love from the community.  I've had a terrific 2008 YTD and I dedicate my year to someone I admire and respect - That person is Phil Ficks of Fonville Morrisey, a tremendous athlete and example for others.

Beyond his great example, I pledge to lead by my example in my journey back to great levels of fitness and happiness with my love for running and cycling.