by Connie Michaelis, Lifestyle Consultant for The Piper
A friend recently sent me a link to an inspirational website that asked the question, “Who packs your parachute?” It is based on a true story about Captain Charles Plumb, US Navy Pilot, who flew 75 missions in Vietnam. He was shot down, parachuted into enemy territory and held captive for six years. After returning to the States, and being reunited with his family, he had a chance encounter with a man who recognized him from his time on the aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk. The sailor said, “I know you. I was working the day you flew your last mission and I packed your parachute.” That encounter set a whole series of events in to motion and Plumb has become a spokesperson of the “parachute” philosophy. Plumb was overcome with gratitude and awareness that people that you may not know or recognize may have powerful influence in your life.
The question remains for all of us, “Who packs your parachute?” We put our lives in the hands of so many people every day. We trust that our car has good brakes… thank you assembly-line worker! We know that if we call 911, first responders are ready to come. Not only do we depend on others for our physical parachute, but there are so many unsung heroes that support us mentally and spiritually every day. Daily acts of kindness from others that just say hello or share a smile may keep us from hitting bottom. Do you think of yourself as one who packs parachutes for others? Wouldn’t it be great to be more intentional about smiling, sharing a kind word or helping a stranger find their way? As we pack parachutes of support for The Piper residents daily, little do they know how they support us with words of gratitude and their wonderful smiles. We are hanging in together! Give us a call at 913.400.7006 and see how we are packing parachutes for life every day.
Request a signed copy of this blog by simply filling out the request form below!
About the Author — Connie Michaelis is an enthusiastic and passionate advocate for the entire arena of successful aging. With years of work in the senior lifestyle space, Connie has become a knowledgeable problem solver for the many issues of Senior transitions. As a weekly newspaper columnist, Connie has become known as an expert in the field and speaks and writes to encourage and support her audience. Through storytelling and humor, Connie can move her audience towards embracing the necessary changes to live their best life. Changing paradigms, planning for the future and preparing for all circumstances lead to a life of peace, happiness and satisfaction. She is a lifestyle consultant for The Piper.
