Editor's Letter
20/20 Vision
Published On: August 31, 2010
I think many of us have a certain degree of myopic blindness when it comes to our surroundings. It often takes a person to connect us to a different view in order to fill in the details. The very act of meeting a stranger can open up an entirely different world of possibilities.
For instance, when I met Bryan Bear, I knew he had talent. He is smart, organized, and has a gift with words. However, it was not until we connected with Pam Brooks that the pieces fell in place and he seemed a natural as Managing Editor for NFocus. Sadly, Bryan has made a connection recently that has taken him onto another cause. He has a big heart and embraces new challenges. Our August issue was his last as our Managing Editor, and he will be missed.
At first, trying to find a replacement for Bryan felt much like walking into the LASIK PLUS office, blurry and unclear. Again, the next step came into focus when a good friend of mine connected us to Laura Snyder, an intelligent, vivacious woman who is committed to making a difference in the world around her. It was like my mom and dad always say, “When the Lord shuts one door, he graciously opens another.”
After introducing Laura to the team, we have decided to add her to our family as Managing Editor. She brings a new perspective to the magazine and will continue to build on the strong foundation we have established. We are actually very lucky in that Bryan will still be with us, capturing the fabulousness of the fashionistas and glitterati of Louisville. However, now, we have another dynamic, passionate individual to shine a light on our community’s giving spirit. We could not be happier to embrace Laura into our family.
The evolution of our magazine in such a short time reminds me of the key message from our cover couple, Dick and Ardi Wilson, two extraordinary people in the world of philanthropy. They view themselves as connectors, people who bring other people together for a cause. It is very much the way I also view my role as the Editor of NFocus, a catalyst for new thought and possibilities. Change brings growth and new perspectives, a way to look at things a little differently and open our eyes to unimaginable possibilities.
Recently, Warren Buffet and Bill Gates launched a challenge to other wealthy individuals to make a difference, by pledging their money to charitable causes. This is a noble endeavor, but you do not need wealth to accomplish the same goal, something I think Dick and Ardi Wilson will agree. In order to make change, you just need to look at a situation with new eyes, an open mind, and the belief that anything is possible. One person can make a difference, but many people connected together can change the world.
We have one of the most charitable cities in the nation, but there is still so much to be done, so many people in need, so many great ideas to accomplish to make Louisville a better place to live. I would like to challenge our readers to be creative, live their passions, and see the world with new eyes. Perhaps opening ourselves up to new possibilities and connections will result in huge changes in our community. Big ideas usually start simply; what makes them big is the ripple effect they have on everyone around them.
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