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President's Messages -- July 2015
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Sometimes our Greatest Accomplishments Come from a Loss
By David Ferris
Fun Fact: Did you know that 10 years ago, we were the largest Chapter in the American Society of Landscape Architects? Did you know we had just over 1,000 members or 1/16 of all ASLA members?
In 1986, I was 15-year-old and had just started playing competitive golf. I had entered a match play tournament where I was playing against kids much older than myself, and I knew I didn't stand much of a chance. I managed to make it through the first round but found myself five down after five holes in my second match. For those that don't understand match play golf, this is the worst start you could possibly have. My opponent was more than halfway to victory. While on the 6th tee, I overheard him say to his buddy that the match was "in the bag" and I stood "no chance." He was probably right as I had never shown any resilience in any golf competition prior. This day would prove to be different, and I discovered new things about my game and myself. I played the next 11 holes even par; and when we stood on 18th tee, the match was even. Now, I wish the story could end there, but instead the story ends with a bogey on the last hole and a one down loss. Despite the loss, I attribute this match to being one of the key events that formed the foundation of who I am today.
Have you ever thought something was impossible? Ever look at a loss as a positive? We have all suffered loss in life and hopefully had some great victories along the way. I have heard my pastors over the years preach about the positives that can come from a personal loss, I've heard athletes mention how they are stronger after a loss and I've seen my children no longer cry over spilled milk. We learn, we grow and we never stop moving forward.
Shortly after FLASLA became the largest Chapter, the great recession set in and we lost half our members. Despite this loss, it has proven to be a key event that formed the foundation of who we are today. The leadership of the Chapter made unpopular, but necessary budget adjustments, and attempted to retain as many members as possible. I believe the Chapter showed tremendous resilience as a result of their efforts and will to promote and protect the profession for many years to come. We learned from the membership loss 'tsunami' and we continue to grow as we move forward.
As President of YOUR organization, I want to thank our longtime members; we could not be a great organization without your continued support. Also, thank you to our new members who give FLASLA a bright future.
As always, please feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns.