President's Message

We were desperately late on the way to taking my three kids (ages 12, 9, and 6) on the Block Island Ferry for the first time. As I circled the garage looking for a parking spot, I told them they could have all the candy they wanted if we made it on the boat. They excitedly chanted “Team Adams! We got this!” But something happened on the race to the dock.

Team Adams was hot out of the gate. Bags slung over shoulders we easily crossed the busy street and started to run – unfortunately in the wrong direction. Efficiency gave way to uncertainty and Team Adams unraveled. As Team Leader, I looked forward and shifted course. Everyone followed. Glancing back and seeing my oldest and her sister close behind, I knew we were going to make it after all. That is until my normally quiet middle daughter, from the middle of the pack, yelled, “DAD – GET JACK!” The boy had called to me to slow down, but I didn’t hear him. Running as fast as his 6-year-old legs could, Jack still fell way behind. When I got to him, he had lost a flip flop and was so out of breath he could not even cry, let alone call out for me. I will never forget the silent terror in his eyes as I scooped him up and kept running.

We made it on the boat, ate candy, endured only one minor case of seasickness, and had a wonderful trip. Team Adams was back in formation as we explored Block Island.

It is often said that we have two ears and one mouth for a reason. Then why is it more difficult to listen than it is to talk? How often do we craft our response while we wait to speak? Are we listening in that moment? Are we seeking for understanding or for an opportunity to persuade? In the race to the dock, I didn’t listen to one team member, and another had to shout to get my attention. I let the entire team down at the most critical moment because I listened only to myself.

How do credit unions listen to their members? After all, we often say that giving members what they want is part of the credit union difference. How do we know if what they say is the same as what they truly want?  How do we listen to the voice that is too quiet to be heard above the noise? Do we pay the most attention to those that finally stir up the courage to shout?

As the League races through planning and budgeting for a new year, we promise to stop and listen – with both ears. Thank you for your enduring trust and affiliation.

As always,
Bruce