First Presentation

This past weekend we had a family reunion in Fremont for Elizabeth's family. On Sunday Night after the party I had a chance to sit the immediate family down and do a vision presentation, allow people to support us and receive some critique.
This was a big step for me because I have always been one who struggles with criticism. I tend to disconnect to the job at had if I feel that improvement is needed. God has really changed my heart on this issue because I finished my presentation and opened for questions and feedback. It was one of the most positive experiences that I have ever had. In the past I had a supervisor that handed down negative criticism that was derogatory toward me personally. He equated my performance with me as a person and it was a hurtful experience. In the moments after the presentation I received harsh criticism but in the context of love and it was awesome. The feedback was accurate and helpful and since I have reworked the presentation based on the suggestions and now I think that it is a great deal better. I was very happy that I allowed myself to be vulnerable and share my passion. The critique do not come in the form of how I should change my values but in how I can communicate them better. Oh and yes people were able to commit some support.
The biggest thing that I learned that night was the simple fact that if I am not passionate about my vision they will not support it. I learned that as much as I am communicating a vision I need to connect with the listeners.
After the night had closed and everyone had gone to their beds my mother-in-law came to me and said that one of the people in the room was very impressed with our willingness to take the huge risk and move some where and start from scratch. I had never really thought of the risk involved. Now more than ever I am convinced that this is God's calling on my life.