My pack of dogs

On a recent trip to the Texas coast I was telling a dear friend about the people who were my strong supporters back when I was in management in the banking business and when I was doing computer training/management.  

I was telling her a story about one my secretaries who was asked one day "How can you work for that woman?" and her reply was oh you don't know her at all.  And she went on to say what a great boss I was and how the people that worked for me really liked me and would stand up for me if needed.  

Right out of my travel companion's mouth came the words "Oh like your pack of dogs who will defend you to the death."  I laughed out loud and said I would have never called my people that but many of them were very loyal employees to me and would have defended me to any and all. 

People on the outside always saw that I got things done on my own and through other people which is one of the many gifts I possess.  From the outside it often looked like I was a very driven person who got things done no matter what.  We use to laugh that I was a pushy b.t..h and many people not working close to me thought that.

Another reply to my travel companion, was I have always had "my pack of dogs" and even though I don't need them quite as much as I did in the working and management world, I still have "my pack of dogs".  They just don't have to show their teeth very often since I retired.

As I was writing this on New Year's Day, I realized that there is at least one person who I still remain in contact with who has been in "my pack of dogs" longer than anyone else in my life.  She first worked for me at the Bank of A&M in College Station.  We all grew up together there and learned how the banking business really works and how to fix it when things were broken.  I decided to call her and we just got off the phone.  We talked for nearly an hour.  We laughed and reminisced about old times and old friends.  She worked for me at three different banks over the years.  I can honestly say, she could work me under the table...especially on a calculator.  I love you Sheila.

So for those of you who have ever been in "my pack of dogs", I say thank you to my loyal employees, bosses, friends, mentors and followers...I know you know who you are.  You made my journey easier and more satisfying. 

May you all be so lucky to have and know your own "pack of dogs".

Abundant blessings, peace and joy.