\ I think it was your mom

I often describe very real conversations from work by masking them as humorous episodes that make me look very much like a redeemable human being, such as the following:

Boss: We'll need to get that press release done by today for the President. He was adamant.
Me: DON'T DRINK DON'T SMOKE, WHAT DO YOU DO?! DON'T DRINK DON'T SMOKE, WHAT DO YOU DO?!
Coworkers: {silence}
Me: What? He was adamant...Adam Ant???
Coworkers: {silence}
Me: You know you want to get up in my girl.

Unfortunately, I realize that if you want people to think of you as worthy of not being shivved, you really need to rely on testimonials. Today, I got the evaluations from my last training session, and while I reject the term HERO, I must admit that it is apparent I have had a profound impact on the lives of others.

In all seriousness, I don't often promote my own qualities. I am fairly uncomfortable with praise, and this had a large part to do with why I used to have the somewhat bizarre habit of actually soliciting criticism, albeit with a tongue-in-cheek bent. But when it comes to issues about which I am passionate, I am not hesitant about throwing my heart and soul into my best effort, irrespective of how the results might be perceived. Needless to say, as with anyone who is ardent about his or her cause, those perceptions often reflect favorably upon the individual. Not to boast, but such is the case with me and my decade's long advocacy for national service and volunteer programs. Please indulge me a moment, then, as I share some snippets of feedback I received from my most recent event. While I am somewhat embarrassed by the magnanimity of the praise, I don't often share with the world what I am all about in real life, and my hope is that I can somehow inspire even one of you out there to find a cause, dedicate your life to it, and be passionate about the difference you are making.

Comment 1
"Brandon Rogers is the best ever!"

Although the feedback was anonymous, I am confident I know who this person is. What is telling about the statement is how the individual left the room 2 minutes after I started speaking and was still moved enough to offer praise.

Comment 2
"Brandon was funny, but to be honest, I would have rather he come with a presentation ready to give, then tell his personal stories afterwards. I got really impatient with all the random tangents."

This individual thought I was funny!

Comment 3
"Brandon was trying to be funny but he came off as boring and lame. His material was very dry and for the most part useless."

Someone else thought I was funny, too! It's unanimous. Being passionate and being funny are not mutually exclusive!

Comment 4
"Now, Mr. Rogers is dry-witted and funny, and he may of looked "hip" sitting on his desk, but I was really looking forward to learning something. Brandon just focused on telling jokes and teaching us how to cut corners- or to "kiss butt". He seemed like he really didn't care, and he answered important questions with answers like "I think it was your mom." I really wish this subject had an instructor that took this a bit more seriously."

It was totally his mom.