Taking the Time to Think

Reflecting on the second anniversary of the passing of Charles R. “Charlie” Morris, a mentor and former Secretary of the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, I share a powerful memory from 1975 that left a lasting impact on me. Walking by Charlie’s office, I was shocked to find him with his feet up on his desk, reading the newspaper, and not a single paper in sight. When I questioned his seemingly relaxed demeanor amid the agency’s challenges, he calmly responded, “Neil, I am paid to think. I am thinking,” teaching me the importance of taking time to think amidst hard work.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

READ THE POST