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I stepped towards a new destiny with nothing to break my fall. Many previous steps resulted in klutzy failures, but you taught me how to walk. And you taught me how to dance. And you lead me through two years of life.  A simple thank you does not suffice.  

After finding myself on a stage, prominently located at the end of a crowded ballroom, lights low, music cued, in the heart of my native city, trying not to forget the steps, I wondered what made that simple step, that first step, so difficult?  

Now, I understand.  Worse than knowing there is no power for change is, perhaps, knowing there is such power; and that it lies dormant within each of us until we call it forth.  And if you are lucky enough to have friends, who will put their hand in yours, guide you forward, and catch you before the fall, then perhaps you understand that change is often easier with help.  

So, my friends, my leads, my fellow follows, I offer you my sincerest gratitude in the form of the words on these pages. And just as you revealed new steps to me over time, I will provide you with pieces of this thank you over the next twelve months. And to those with whom I’ve never danced, and even those I’ve never met, this is just me, putting out my hand and asking you to follow.