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Sometimes the Detour Is the Destination

There are days when everything is mapped out perfectly and then there are days when life reminds you that plans are an illusion. March 21, 2026 was one of those days. My daughter, Haelee, was scheduled to present at the Ben L. Smith Leadership Conference on March 21, 2026. I was looking forward to sitting back and watching her shine in a space that was built for growth, leadership, and connection as an alumnus of Smith and proud dad.


But the day didn’t go as planned. Haelee experienced a medical emergency that morning, and to add to it, we were caught in a major accident delay on I-40 heading into Greensboro. I considered turning around but I believe in keeping my promises, so my wife and I stayed the course and I’m glad I did.


We arrived too late for me to deliver Haelee's presentation, but the day still poured into me. Dr. Jennifer Redfearn, Dr. Asia-La'Rae Walker, and others welcomed me into their sessions and allowed me to participate. Best of all, Dr. Redfearn shared some facilitation gems I’ll carry forward.


Being back at Smith alongside fellow alums reminded me that you really can come back home again. It was also a reminder that growth doesn’t always come from executing the plan sometimes it comes from how you respond when the plan changes.


Not every win looks like you imagine it would. But purpose has a way of finding you when you stay the course, remain open, and show up.


So I’ll leave you with this question:


Have you ever had a day go completely off track, but still give you exactly what you needed?


Thank you Jonthan Byrd for all that you do. Oh and please enjoy watching the students fumble over the 4 C's trying to build a pyramid with cups.








 
 
 

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