One of my favorite things to do is to sit down with another woman over a cup of tea to learn more about her life, her story, her journey, her dreams.  I’m always honored when someone just a bit younger asks to talk with me.  It’s a treasure to share how God has worked in my life, what I’ve learned so far, and what I would do differently if given the chance.  I love the idea of pouring just a bit of wisdom into someone else’ life.  And it’s an absolute gift when someone a few steps ahead of me will take the time to impart some wisdom to me.

I keep a running list of women I’d like to meet with.  My list goes forward to the women a few steps (sometimes a lot of steps) ahead of me.  These are the women who I believe can pull me along, kick me in the pants if needed, and stretch me to the next level.  And my list looks around me to the women who are just a few steps behind me either in experiences or age.  These are the women I feel responsible to encourage, challenge and stretch to achieve their dreams.  I’m convinced that the power of a gracious leader is immeasurable.  And too many times we as leaders are so busy seeking our own growth and gain that we’re missing the opportunities to invest in those around us.

This month at Cultivate Her we’ll be talking about the power of the gracious leader.  We’ll hear from several leaders who lead graciously by investing and empowering others around them on a consistent basis.  And we’ll be challenging you to identify one woman who you can invest in.

If you could have a cup of tea with any woman throughout history, past or present, who would it be?

My list?

Queen Elizabeth I

Eleanor Roosevelt

Mother Theresa

Condoleeza Rice