The Orchid Story
In just a few weeks my next book, Career Moves will be released. I am thrilled with this one. “She” is a little different from the others in one important way. In this book, two stories unfold. One is the story I tell; one is the story you tell. I can’t wait for you to meet the characters and connect more fully with the story unfolding inside of you!
I asked a dear friend who is an executive for a global company to read an advance copy and give me feedback. It was amazing to see how she connected with the story and built upon it. She pulled her own story out of mine. That is exactly what Career Moves is designed to do!
One of the metaphors you will find in reading the book is the bonsai. Here is a quote from Zoe, a character in Career Moves:
“Some people think bonsai trees are just miniature versions of larger trees, and something cruel has been done to keep them small. I used to think that too, but it isn’t true. Bonsais are a wonderful example of disciplined, deliberate growth. I think that’s a good metaphor for what is happening here—growth that is elegant and purposeful. It takes understanding and commitment to grow a bonsai. There is a science to it, but it is also an art form.”
Just days after my friend read the manuscript, an orchid arrived at my door. A lovely Lady’s Slipper. Attached was a note: “I love the bonsai metaphor. Orchids have a story too. Next time we talk I’ll share it with you.”
Completely intrigued, I called her!
She explained that orchids are unique in the way they pull nutrients from the air. Some orchids, like the Lady’s Slipper don’t take nutrients from the soil. They literally “inhale,” taking what they need from the air! They work with the environment to create something extraordinary. That is a beautiful metaphor for a life well-lived: working where we are, with what we have to create something marvelous.
This book is special in another way too. The foreword is written by someone I admire and respect so much. Thank you Bob Burg, Co-Author of The Go-Giver and Go-Givers Sell More. Your endorsement and foreword is a precious gift.
Stand by. In a few days, I have a gift for you.
You were designed for success and built to grow,
Dondi
January 26th, 2010 at 2:14 am
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Dondi Scumaci and Beth Hansen York, Jevon Bolden. Jevon Bolden said: Great new blog post from @DondiScumaci about working where u r and w/ what u have 2 create something marvelous: http://bit.ly/87IPV0. [...]
February 21st, 2010 at 7:57 pm
I can’t wait to read your book, Dondi.
As you know, we met on Twitter, as Dondi was one of the cartoon characters I loved growing up. And, sure enough you were named after him (pretty sure he was a boy with big eyes).
I like the metaphor of the bonsai, and the orchid. You made my day!
February 21st, 2010 at 8:21 pm
Thank you Lois. Yes! I am named after the cartoon kid with great big eyes! Appreciate your comments so much. Thank you for taking the time.
March 14th, 2010 at 5:41 pm
Hello Dondi,
I’m open to all the GREAT opportunities that God has instore for me and I appreciate your parable and wise tips and instruction in “Career Moves” – God Bless You for making a difference for others through your writing talents and consulting. Warmest regards, Keri
I purchased your book via Bob Burg’s suggestion on Facebook and I really enjoyed it very much. After reading your book I felt rejuvenated and enlightened to see how blessed I am in my current career. I’ve had a “tugging feeling” for a while that maybe I needed a change as I’ve been with my current company for nineteen years (I’m now 40 years old). After reading “Career Moves” I felt like I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be. God has blessed me with a beautiful husband, two awesome children and wonderful friends and family…I’ve always felt grateful for such abundance. I go through peaks and valleys in my professional life (I’m a marketing consultant with the local newspaper) which I know is normal especially in sales. Many books have touched my spirit lately and I’ve turned into quite the “seeker.”
March 15th, 2010 at 7:19 am
Keri,
Thank you so much for your kind note. I am thrilled to hear that Career Moves was an affirming journey! It is wonderful to know that we are right where we belong and to be filled with gratitude for where we are and who we are with. You are right – the peaks and valleys are so normal. They serve us well. It is in the valley that we build endurance for the climb. I am honored to have Career Moves in your library and grateful (once again) for Bob Burg who is such a Go-Giver and great friend.
Blessings to you!
Dondi