Credibility is an interesting word. It is used often to describe projects (positively or negatively), and is a key indicator of the successful performance of a project. The question is, however, how is credibility achieved? Recognizing that credibility is a victory over cynicism or skepticism, and not a gift that is received without a great deal of work, the question of how credibility is achieved still remains. I think that it begins with each person, working on a collective endeavor, focusing on a few things individually in order to make sure that the overall project achieves its goal.

This is a form of synergy. The whole being something greater than the sum of its individual parts. Here are a few questions for each of us to answer about ourselves that will hopefully shape our collective efforts as we move forward into the next phase of MCMC. Working together to maintain our credibility and to achieve an even higher level if we can, begins with these individual questions (from one of my John Maxwell books):

• Are you the same person no matter who is with you?
• Do you make decisions based on how they benefit you, or others?
• Are you quick to recognize others for their efforts when you succeed?
• Do you work harder at your image or your integrity?
• Have you recognized that credibility is a victory, not a gift?

These are great questions to ponder this week, and as we move forward with our program. There are many moving parts with which we will have to deal over the next few weeks, and I hope that you will continue to be patient with us as we strive to make sure that what we do is credible and of high quality. I look forward to seeing many of you in a couple of weeks at our August conference. We will be sending more details about this conference as we finalize the arrangements and content that will be covered. We are also working hard to complete our process with FEMA and hope to have final documents that concern the continuation period to your affiliates in the very near future.  As I said, there are many moving parts, and what we do with those parts will say a great deal about our credibility as a project. Take care and have a Blessed rest of the week.

Stephen