Reading List

Thanks to new technologies and electronic medium, we are all more connected now than perhaps at any point in the course of human history. Yet, many of us report and isolated, even lonely, in the middle of this jumble of humanity and clanging smart phones. Even with my own business and civic involvements, LinkedIn, while helpful, simply isn’t enough. We seek ways to experience real commonality – the kind that at once binds us to each other and elevates our mutual understanding. While we spend hours together every day, week or month, our busy lives and constant distractions often prevent authenticity or even facilitate superficiality



So at my office, inspired by important midcentury Indiana business, civic and philanthropic leader, Pierre Goodrich, I share a reading list with coworkers (and even my 15-year-old son) each quarter. Each of the five books on the list – actually some are papers or collections of speeches and essays – tends to convey some topic on my mind or perhaps an important theme currently being considered by the entity. For example, I recently finished William Shakespeare's Henry V. In my own companies, because of the new responsibilities I’ve undertaken with Legacy Fund, young managers are now expected to serve in greater capacity and with less supervision in the past. It reminds me of Hal’s challenges in leaving behind Falstaff ultimately to assume the responsibility of rule. Once read, I will meet for lunch, drinks or whatever, one-on-one and on my dime to discuss the book and let us learn more about each other in a much richer and deeper way than I have found sharing a basketball game, a much as I love the Pacers, has yet to offer. How is it that we share with those around us? And, isn't it better to understand and think together?

This column was published on Tuesday, September 6, 2011 in the Current in Carmel, Current in Westfield, Current in Fishers , and Current in Noblesville - http: //youarecurrent.com/

Photo taken from http://annabrixthomsen.com