Dependable – We do what we say we are going to do, every time, no exceptions.
Lake Superior is a beautiful lake. This lake is an awesome place to fish for walleye. Catching a walleye and then cooking it over an open fire is quite an experience. This fact has little to do with what I want to write about today.
Lake Superior is also known for its danger. Storms can form without notice, causing them to be a dangerous lake to navigate, even for the most experienced of skippers.
In November of 1905, a storm strengthened so quickly that 29 ships were lost in a single day on Lake Superior.
The construction of Split Rock Lighthouse commenced in late 1905 and was completed by 1910. Since that date, it has consistently warned vessels of the dangers of the rocky inland waters by casting a beam that is visible for 22 miles.
The longest-serving keeper of the lighthouse retired a few years ago. Lee Radzak served the lighthouse and the navigators of the lake for 36 years. He was dependable in warning others of danger, casting a light over troubled waters, and being a comfort to captains who could see his light while being tossed around in darkness.
Imagine if Lee decided the weather was too cold, too windy for him to get out of the comforts of his bed and head to the tower to man the light through the night darkness. Imagine if he thought, “No one will notice if I skip one night.”
His dependability had an impact on countless lives he will never know about.
This virtue is not open to negotiation. We must be like Lee and show up every day and give it 100%.
One thing I have learned in recent weeks is that this virtue does not mean I need to do it alone. I cannot be successful on my own.
If I am to be dependable, I need the help of others.
Be candid enough to ask for help, humble enough to receive it, gritty enough to follow through, hungry enough to expand your knowledge, and then you will be dependable enough for others to count on each day.
