I have been going through a major transition in my life. I have had the honor of naming a new CEO to the company I founded more than 10 years ago. A company that, in many ways, is the product of disaster and redemption. Of my own recovery story. This transition, while wonderful, has not been without strife. As I celebrate Yom Kippur, also known as the day of atonement, I aim to find peace and forgiveness during this time. Yom Kippur is a day in which we have the opportunity to start anew, to choose a new path forward. To be forgiven. Last week I spoke about forgiving ourselves. Today, I want to talk about forgiving others. My personal belief is that my best path forward is to emulate God. In whatever ways I can. So, just as he forgives, so must I forgive. When I transitioned from the CEO to the chairman of Transcend, it was not celebrated by all. Some people near and dear to me have decided to transition as well. Some people near and dear to me have chosen to break ties with me. I have always been honest about my fear and sensitivity around abandonment. This is a huge source of trauma for me. So how do I keep my balance, my sanity? Firstly, I have forgiven myself for being angry and hurt. I have chosen to understand that my issues with abandonment are mine to deal with and no one else’s. Ultimately, it’s up to me to keep my side of the street clean. To forgive and move forward with patience and empathy, both for myself and others. We have a choice to be victims or victors. I will choose to be victorious. Regardless of others reactions, I will show love. This week, my wish and hope is that no matter how hard it is to be the hero of your own story, we will assume the responsibility of that role in our lives. To be a victor and not a victim. To let go of any spite or malice so that you can hold the space for happiness, growth, and resolve. The choice is ours.
Accountability, Community, Unconditional Love

Asher

Posted in Thought of the Week