We humans often seem to spend too much time looking for some deep meaning in life events when, in fact, things are often pretty simple and straight forward. Recently, I forgot to do something I usually do for someone.   

Jury duty that is.  Last week it was time to fulfill that dreaded jury duty requirement.  I had taken advantage of putting it off once but my time was up.  I had reluctantly cleared my calendar for the week and planned to be able to work remotely as much as possible.  

At a meeting I was at recently, a friend questioned whether we had used a certain technology and what everyone thought of it. I was embarrassed because I did not know what she was talking about. Happily, for me, others in the room also questioned what was being discussed.  

We often call our Gotham Network which hosts this blog a tribe.  The success of two meetings last  evidences that moniker.  I enjoyed two breakfast time networking meetings on successive mornings last week.  One meeting I chaired virtually; the other I participated in-person.  Each had its benefits.  I saw and interacted with people I enjoy, do some business with or refer business to, to just help or advise.  Both mornings I also met interesting professionals.  

I do it a lot and wonder if you do too. From golf swings, to clients, to important personal relationships I often reflect on them and find myself grateful. But sometimes I figuratively beat myself up. I’m probably my own toughest critic.   Self-reflection can take many forms, including journaling, meditation, and introspection. I don't journal but I know someone who does...every day (you do too:). I sometimes meditate but not while driving. Mostly I am quite introspective.

In my (www.gothamnetworking.com) networking world we ask: Who you are, what you do and how can we help you? It's amazing how fruitful those answers can be, because we believe that "It's better to give than receive, but what goes around comes around." The object of the exercise is multi faceted.  A basic objective is, in the words of my salesman father, "to get on their level", ie, find common ground from which a relationship can spring.  

I had never given it much thought -- until recently.The thought is that I may become a victim of gun violence.

I know this is going to sound a little crazy – but I attended the nicest funeral yesterday.