Consistently Consistent
A few weeks ago, I was asked to speak at a viewing and commemoration for a retired priest at my parish. Father John Bradley was retired, but was a substitute priest at our parish for a few years. I did not know Father John that well, but as I prepared a few brief thoughts on Father John ,I thought about a saying I once heard. That saying is, ”Consistently Consistent”, I thought about what that meant about Father John specifically. Every time he was a substitute priest for a mass at our parish, he was always, “Consistently Consistent”. How was Father John, ”Consistently Consistent”.
He always arrived to mass, early and could be seen reviewing the readings in the Sacristy.
His homilies were always well prepared, thought out, organized and impactful.
He never wavered from his approach to speak to parishioners from in front of the altar. This was not an easy task, as his health began to fail.
I began to think about being “Consistently Consistent” and how that translated to everyday life. I quickly began to understand, that being “Consistently Consistent”, should be a part of everyone’s Personal Brand. Being “Consistently Consistent”, should embody all of the below traits to guide your life:
Send a positive message
Everything matters
Be someone others can count on.
Do what you say you are going to do.
Prepare diligently for all situations.
Arrive on time, which is always 10 minutes early. Thank you Joe Paterno!
Treat all people fairly and in a friendly manner.
Never take people, or situations for granted.
Be grateful
Practice empathy.
