Shukriya … I have taken this Arabic term … to my heart for so many reasons. I learned of Shukriya during my time teaching in India. I was faculty at the Indian School of Business (ISB) in Hyderabad. I was teaching a course on gender in organizations. Creating a space for learning on this topic was not an easy feat. Teaching in a business school added a whole other dimension. Sharing insights, lessons and research on a topic loaded with so many tricky spots was … powerful and tiring at the same time. Navigating a narrow line, a path that you could fall off in one way or another. How did we keep our balance? How did we understand and respect that we (including me) did not have all of the answers? How did we acknowledge that this topic, this very meaningful interaction, was going to evoke painful and joyous feelings? How did we own the holding of a community in which we could make ourselves vulnerable? WE DIDN’T – not at first. But what I appreciated is that my students tried. Sometimes we kept our balance. But most of the time, we fell one way or the other. And we caught one another. One of my students suggested that as part of my concluding remarks that I share the word Shukriya. Shukriya? What does this word mean? It feels beautiful as it rolls from my lips. But what does it mean? This student told me, “Professor Stacy, it means thank you – from the bottom of my heart.” I believe he embellished a bit.
But I never forgot those words – Thank You From the Bottom of My Heart. As I continue in sharing my work and wisdom, learning from those with whom I have the pleasure of collaborating, and stepping into unknown spheres, I want to thank you for joining me. In a journey that may not be easy … a trip that means we may lose our balance … an opportunity to celebrate.
Shukriya
