Unity today reminded me to be grateful for those who inspired me.

And all though I could go back to my early junior high school days and begin this appreciation, today, I shall go back to two people with whom I engaged in the early 1980s. During this era, and thanks to one of these colleagues, I came to use the term “When Pigs Fly.”

Art Allen and Margaret Massey-Cox probably have no idea how much influence they had on decisions I would make about my future and my self-employment. I am eternally grateful for their friendship and for being such great mentors.

Art was the Manager of Training at TVA in Knoxville when I first met him and had the opportunity to secure some executive and management training, which I badly needed. His guidance and concern for me as an employee and my professional and self-development were unique. We had a commonality in our likes as well. We both enjoyed Pawley’s Island, S.C. Art escaped TVA before I did, and I never had the opportunity to thank him. Although, I did make him a video of the Atlantic from my porch on a Pawley’s vacation.

Margaret, or Maggie, I am privileged to know, love, and care for as a dear friend even to this day. When she was a trainer and consultant for Wilson Learning Systems, her inspiration, enthusiasm, and love of learning and training sparked my eventual establishment of ARMSTRONG and Associates, which celebrates its 28^th year in June.

Maggie, thanks, and thanks again. We’ve watched your kids grow into adults and bring along grandkids. It is hard to imagine it has been four decades. I’m only sorry that we live so far apart.

Semper fi my friends.

P.S. Maggie, if you know how to reach Art, please share this note with him. Mucho gracias.