Yesterday was a good day. I participated in my first talk with the Automation Guild 2026. On the same day, the MoT Ambassadors were announced. I'm one of those people on that list. During my talk, I was able to share the good news of being named a MoT Ambassador. It was fun to announce that in the space with others in the community.
Afterward, I went grocery shopping and took a trip to the library. I was thinking about these events and what they mean for me and in the community I'm in. At the end of the day, I felt like I did something, I contributed something that mattered. That is not a feeling I always get to feel. Even when I'm doing something good, I don't always feel its ripple effects. It doesn't mean that they aren't there. Maybe the ripples are quieter or not as visible? I'll think about that.
Yes, yesterday I made two big splashes, but I was able to make those dives because I've been in the water for a significant time now. I don't think you can make a big splash without learning how to swim first.
Here's to putting in the hours, the thankless moments, and the quiet times when I couldn't tell if anything I was doing mattered. It does.
And what you're doing matters too. Just because you can't see the effects of what you're doing doesn't mean that nothing is happening. To continue with the swimming metaphor, you're building muscle, stamina, and you're creating a world that benefits everyone. Even if no one sees it yet. I'm here to cheer you on! Keep going. You're going to have some good days, too.
In the words of my favorite swimmer, Dory the fish, "Just keep swimming."
