Dear Leader,
I trust this meets you in the mood of thanksgiving.
I had something different I wanted to share with you today, on leadership. But as I meditated a bit, I felt a more pressing need to talk about preparation & thanksgiving.
Earlier this month, My Pastor shared with us about the signs of the coming year and how much of what is coming will require preparation. The focus for the month of December was tagged “Preparation & Thanksgiving”.
As the year draws to a close, there is wisdom in pausing, not merely to rest, but to reflect and to prepare. Dates change, seasons change, and so must our posture. This moment invites two deliberate actions: preparation for what lies ahead, and thanksgiving for what has been.
Preparation is not anxiety about the future; it is responsibility toward it. The coming year will reward those who are intentional rather than reactive. Now is the time to take stock of lessons learned, skills gained, and gaps revealed. What must be strengthened? What must be released? What disciplines must be renewed?
True preparation begins inwardly. Clarity of values, priorities, and purpose creates stability when circumstances shift. It also requires practical action such as setting clear goals, sharpening competence, building meaningful relationships, and designing systems that support growth and impact. Those who prepare do not wait for opportunity; they are ready when it arrives.
Equally important is thanksgiving. Gratitude is wisdom. It reminds us that progress is rarely linear and that growth often comes disguised as challenge. In 2025, there were wins worth celebrating, lessons worth honouring, and moments of resilience that deserve recognition.
Thanksgiving is not denial of difficulty; it is acknowledgment of grace within it. Every open door, every closed one that redirected us, every person who supported the journey, and every experience that refined character carries value. Gratitude strengthens perspective and cultivates humility, ensuring that success does not harden the heart.
Preparation without thanksgiving breeds restlessness. Thanksgiving without preparation breeds complacency. Holding both together creates balance.
As we look ahead as leaders, may we prepare diligently, with clarity and courage. As we look back as leaders, may we give thanks to GOD generously, with honesty and grace. In doing so, we step into the next season not rushed, not fearful, but ready and grounded.
Thank you for being part of my journey in 2025, I hope we can do much more together in 2026.
I am rooting for you,
The Great Owete