I'm off today to one of my favorite places in the world ... Zimbabwe. Since 1996, I have made 15 trips to southern Africa, and every time I go, I am reminded that we have so much to be grateful for.

You see, most Americans have a very limited view of the world, and really have not taken the time, or, have not had the opportunity to see other perspectives as it relates to economies, lifestyles, cultures, and nations. While we all tend to see the world through the prism of our own culture and experience, what I have discovered is that we really only account for a small part of the earth's resources and ideas. In fact, one thing that stands out to me is that people in developing nations tend to be more satisfied, content, and especially grateful for what they have.

There are people in the world who are suffering and experiencing tremendous struggles, yet they do not complain. There are people in the world that, in spite of political, social, and economic hardship, they look to God, and to their own leadership potential for answers and solutions. Rather than making excuses, they make decisions. Rather than deferring responsibility, they embrace the challenge, and create ways to solve problems. Rather than looking for handouts, they forge "ways out". Rather than hiding behind judgments, they look inside, and determine to grow themselves.

May we expand our global view, and learn from precious men and women who are, in many ways, leading us by their example.