What If? Lessons from a trash can.

Something magical happened on November 10th, 1969.

The Children's Television Workshop launched a provocative new program geared toward educating children. There were two significant phenomena driving the launch.

First, Americans were watching television in alarming clips. One estimate that I read indicated upwards of 50 hours per week, per household. Geez Louise.

Second, there was a dramatic shortage of preschools. Local communities could not meet the rising demands.

So a diverse cast of humans and a colorful cast of lovable muppets stepped in to save the day. Sesame Street was born.

This morning in my Toastmasters meeting, someone asked me what I make of the phrase ... What if? This was the informal motto of the Sesame Street cast and production crew.

I'm pretty sure I know what the team was thinking when they adopted this motto ... What if we make a difference? Based on what they've done for the past 52 years, it's clear they believe they are making a difference. You don't take on complex and controversial ideas, for very little compensation, without a driving force. I suspect the idea of making a difference was that driving force for the folks on Sesame Street.

What if each of us adopted this motto in our own lives? What would change?

I debated whether I had the time or energy to write this post. Then I asked myself ... What if writing this post makes a difference for one person? As soon as I asked this question, my course of action was clear.

What if it is possible to affect change? What if it is possible to make a difference? What if what you are doing right now is absolutely critical to someone?

What would change for you?

peace,

-zog