Love In Action

Carl and Ellie from Disney’s Up

I love the movie UP. As a Disney fan, that story of Carl and Ellie has always stayed with me because it is about love showing up in the small, steady ways.

This week at one of my daughter’s last high school soccer games, I saw that story come to life. An elderly gentleman came into the stands with his wife who is in the late stages of dementia. She struggled to walk and was visibly confused. He never rushed her. He gently guided her to her seat, brushed her hair, placed her hat on, wrapped her in a warm coat, kissed her head, and then cheered loudly for their granddaughter who was playing on the opposing team. At halftime he stood with her and slowly walked her back and forth across the grass so she could get some exercise. When the rain began, he was ready with an umbrella to protect her.

I was taken back. I have to admit, I teared up. It was tender. It was steady. It was love in its purest form. Carl and Ellie, right there on the bleachers.

Watching him reminded me of what matters most. Family. Love. Showing up for the people who carry us through the hard times. Those truths apply to leadership as much as they do to life. The best leaders are not remembered for titles or recognition. They are remembered for presence, for patience, and for the way they serve others even when it takes effort.

In my work as an educator and entrepreneur I hold on to this. Innovation, technology, and strategy all have their place. What will always matter most is people. Students. Families. Teams. The ones who give us their trust and deserve our very best.

This couple reminded me that both love and leadership are found in the daily choice to notice, to care, and to keep showing up. Life really is beautiful when we take the time to pay attention.