Last week we once again had the honor of exhibiting at the NACS Show, and as always it was a remarkable experience. The event held true to its theme – “Connect” – and we were privileged to share ideas with hundreds of c-store pros. So much preparation goes into an event like NACS that the post-event plane ride home is always a great time for reflection. Here are some of our take-aways as we look back on this year’s event, savor the present moment, and look forward to the upcoming holidays and new year. There’s one general theme that pervades it all: gratitude.
First, we’re grateful to be part of the NACS community, and not just because of the connections we make. Being part of such a large event reminds us that the world is both an immensely large and an inexplicably small place. On the one hand, the exhibit hall at the event was a virtual sea of people. It’s a bit overwhelming at first. But as you get used to the ebb and flow of the sea, it doesn’t take long for you find calm and commonality in the simplest of interactions.
Second, we’re grateful for where we are in the present moment. We’re blessed – it’s as simple as that. We realize that success is defined not only by what you do, but who you do it with. That’s why we’ve built our team with people who share our values and built our client list based on relationships, not profit margins.
Lastly, right around the corner from the October NACS show is the true season of giving, and that’s always something to look forward to. While we’re all connected by industry or profession, we are first and foremost members of families, neighborhoods, and towns. Let’s take time in the coming busy months of the year to reach out to those who may not be as blessed as we are. Let’s not wait until we’re driven together by the next tragedy – let’s come together as one now, with the hope that our togetherness will protect us all in 2018 and beyond.
