Delegating

I've always wanted to do tasks for myself, but I sometimes take on projects that cannot be managed by one person. So, I've disciplined myself to delegate some things to people I trust.

The most recent successful delegation is to Patrick. I know we need a sound system at the outdoor wedding ceremony, and I don't have a clue about sound systems. Sounds like a ready-made delegation opportunity to me! So, soon after Keith and I were engaged, I asked Patrick to be part of the crew of musicians for our wedding, and I also asked him to handle the sound system. I think my words were something like, "Patrick, I don't know how a sound system works, I don't know where to get one, and I don't want to know any of these things. I just need one there that works." Patrick is all too familiar with sound systems and people who know about them. So, he agreed to track one down, give me price quotes for rental and replacement, and work out the details with the owners.

This week, Patrick sent me an email with his results. A shop owner in Macon will rent us a system for $150 plus the rental of two wireless mics. Not a bad deal, I think. Then, Patrick called some of his connections, and Lord's Players of Mercer University will loan us the equipment with wireless mics. Patrick wants to give a donation to the ministry because he believes in it and he was deeply committed to it some years ago. I told him that Keith and I really are trying to spend money in the direction of the people who really need it. I certainly think this qualifies! Oh, the extra deal is that the leader of Lord's Players wants to come to make sure the equipment is taken care of and run appropriately, which means Patrick won't have to be solely responsible for it all. When he's got his musician hat on for the day, we'll have no problems.

I love this! I am surrounded by people who are really smart and responsible. They get things done in ways that are better than I could accomplish. Other delegates, off the top of my head are:

my mom - dress alterations, investigating potential purchases, and who knows what else I'll ask her to do!
Lynne - the crew of musicians, investigating locations for our dinner on April 3, handling the "what if" situations of the day
Melissa - checking out hotel info, and there will be other things that I don't know about yet
Keith - flowers, writing invitations, and a lifetime of opportunities for delegating! :)
Mike - the sand ceremony container