"Rooted to Rise": Honoring Those Who Shaped Us

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Being a high-level achiever often means someone has shaped, influenced, and developed your talents along the way. These influences can come from a multitude of sources. Family members often play a pivotal role, providing support and encouragement. Teachers and mentors contribute by imparting knowledge, wisdom, and guidance. Friends and peers can also have a significant impact, offering different perspectives and motivating us to strive for more. Moreover, books, experiences, and even the challenges we face shape our abilities and character, pushing us to grow and excel.

Sherri Coale, the Hall of Fame women’s basketball coach from the University of Oklahoma, believes that “every story starts somewhere—with the people and places that leave an imprint on us like fossils.” In her book, Rooted to Rise, Coale shares stories about the people who helped shape her career. It’s not a book about accomplishments, but rather an exploration of who shaped our identity. It’s a book about the connections we make along our journey. While we use platforms like Ancestry.com to understand our heritage, Coale uses her voice—through poignant stories—to help us trace the relationships that formed our identity.

Finding our identity is a journey that requires reflection on the influences that have molded us. It involves recognizing and appreciating the many ways we’ve been shaped by those around us. Understanding our identity means piecing together fragments of our past—acknowledging the roles played by family, mentors, friends, and the experiences that tested and strengthened us.

As Coale illustrates in Rooted to Rise, these elements intertwine to form the unique tapestry of who we are. By examining these connections, we gain deeper insight into our character and the values that define us—ultimately empowering us to navigate the future with greater purpose and clarity.

Coale’s book is a powerful reminder to appreciate our mentors. We cannot live comfortably in the present without honoring those who helped pave our path and define our identity.

In a world increasingly dominated by digital communication, the art of the handwritten thank-you note remains a powerful and personal way to express gratitude. Unlike emails or text messages, a handwritten note carries a sense of thoughtfulness and effort that speaks volumes about the sender’s appreciation.

Handwritten thank-you notes offer a personal touch that electronic communication can’t replicate. The choice of stationery, the uniqueness of handwriting, and the time taken to craft each word demonstrate sincerity and care to those who have made a difference in shaping our character. This effort shows the recipient that they are valued—and that their gesture, whether it be a gift, a kind word, or support, has made a meaningful impact.

Expressing gratitude through handwritten notes strengthens the bond between sender and recipient. It acknowledges the recipient’s kindness and reinforces positive interactions. This practice can deepen personal relationships and cultivate a culture of appreciation and respect—whether in our personal lives or within an organization.

A simple note requires reflection on the reasons for gratitude and the significance of the recipient's actions. This mindfulness fosters a greater sense of appreciation and can positively influence the sender’s overall outlook. It serves as a reminder to cherish and acknowledge the contributions of others in our lives.

In an era where quick and impersonal communication is the norm, handwritten thank-you notes stand out as a meaningful and impactful way to convey gratitude. Coale’s book serves as a reminder to acknowledge the help we’ve received. As we navigate our busy lives, taking the time to write a thank-you note can be a profound gesture—one that honors the kindness of others and enriches our own sense of appreciation.

Sherri Coale is not only a Hall of Fame coach—she’s a Hall of Fame writer and person.

Thank you, Sherri.

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