April 2023 | Life is a Team Sport

Posted: April 1, 2023 at 6:08 p.m.

“How I invest my life each day is important. Life is a lot like finances. We generally do one of two things with our money. We spend it, or we invest it. The money we spend we never see again. The money we invest wisely multiplies and comes back to us. We do the same thing with our lives. We spend our life, or we invest our life. A life spent selfishly is gone, but a life invested in helping others will bear fruit for eternity.”

Last September, I mentioned Dan Meers in this column. I said if things go well, KC Wolf would make an appearance to cheer on the Kansas City Chiefs in February’s Super Bowl in Arizona. A few weeks later, we booked Dan Meers as a guest speaker for a training event for Team SEMO on February 20, 2023. Wow. When Dan showed up in Sikeston, he was eight days removed from winning the Super Bowl! He is a man of character and could have easily said I am exhausted.

It is important that Team SEMO conduct training events on a regular basis. We work hard daily to build and maintain a culture of safety and success. Dan brought to us the energy he brings to life every day. It was good timing for Team SEMO, the employees of SEMO Electric Cooperative, and GoSEMO Fiber. We have seen snow, ice, and wind storms in 2023. We have had several fiber lines shot to disrupt service in 2023. Storms and emergencies are part of our 24/7/365 commitment and lifestyle. Much like other essential service providers, our doors are really never locked.

Dan reminded us of how important every day is and how we need to make the most of it as we serve others. He reminded us of how important it is to show up every day with character and passion. He reminded us of how our relationships at work and home are the most important things in life. He said “Your life is like a coin. Spend it wisely.”

Team SEMO has its good days and its not-so-good days. We strive to work safely every day while we provide essential electricity and broadband services to you. We want to keep you warm or cool as you surf, stream, or watch. Like Dan, we understand the importance of relationships. We value you as a member-owner or subscriber and we work diligently to maintain your trust. We want our actions to make a positive impact. We appreciate the opportunity to serve you.

SEMO Electric’s Annual Meeting of Members is set for Thursday, May 18 at the Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo Grounds. Drive through to say hello, vote, and receive an attendance gift, and a $15 bill credit. Gates will open at 10 a.m. and close at 6 p.m. Look for more information in this issue and May’s Rural Missouri.

Book of the Month: “How I invest my life each day is important. Life is a lot like finances. We generally do one of two things with our money. We spend it, or we invest it. The money we spend we never see again. The money we invest wisely multiplies and comes back to us. We do the same thing with our lives. We spend our life, or we invest our life. A life spent selfishly is gone, but a life invested in helping others will bear fruit for eternity.” Wolves Can’t Fly by Dan Meers Book

Be smart. Act safe. Keep pushing forward!

Sean is the CEO/GM of SEMO Electric Cooperative and GoSEMO Fiber.