Be Creating

Aunt Evelyn A few days ago I mentioned two women who lived women’s rights, one was Elsa the other was my Aunt and Godmother Evelyn Hilberg Fitzenberger. She was a mid-level executive at Montgomery Wards and an avid knitter. As young women, she and my grandmother drove a Model T from South Dakota to the west coast. Very adventurous for their time. I hardly remember a time she didn’t have a bag filled with yarn and a pair of needles in her hand.  Each year I was the recipient of a wonderful pair of handmade mittens – color of my choice.  My aunt was one of the calmest women I have known, maybe knitting helped her stay calm and patient.  Nothing ever seemed to rattle her cage.  She never raised her voice; she was always in a good mood and extremely generous. She owned a cabin on the South Twin Lake – the lake where Elsa had the resort.  She and her husband, Harvey, invited us up almost every weekend in the summer.  Harvey was one of the first 19 e...

Today I found out that one of my hero's- teachers- mentors passed.  He had been on my mind for weeks now and I just didn't take the time to reach out and connect.   William Powers was the originator of Perceptual Control Theory, the theory of living systems that has changed the way I live, the way I think and how I perceive the actions of others.  His work has touched thousands around the world and will leave a legacy for many years to come.  He taught me how no question is ever too simple when asked with the intent to learn.  His ability to practice and model everything he believed, and taught was a gift he gave to everyone he met.  I will miss him. This year I have attempted to write to someone from my past I hope you do the same.  I believe that when you have a strong positive thought about someone reach out and stay in touch.