@Amy, I think there are quite a few things that most people would put before country. Family comes to mind, and for the religious, God. I am all for patriotism but we do need to have our priorities in order

@Oktober, I’m not sure why you thought your comment would be misconstrued. The idea behind “people first,” for me, is that we take actions that serve the greater good not our own selfish desires. That’s why I used my former CEO as an example. She was so consumed by getting what she wanted for herself that she did so at the expense of others. There’s nothing wrong with wanting more for oneself but there’s a line where it just becomes indecent.

@t.sterling, Sam did know a change was gonna come and I think maybe you and I are going to bear witness to that change in just a few weeks

@kouji, Ah, thanks for sharing some of these sites. I’ve been hearing a lot about kiva.org lately. Even though the problems of the world are sometimes disheartening and overwhelming, it’s important that we note those individuals and organizations who are working to help and practicing the philosophy of putting people first.

@Thanks Lance! Yes, some of us don’t have extra money but we could spare an hour here and there. Others are coping with full schedules but could spare a few dollars. I think each of us can do something, whatever that may be. Even opening a conversation and talking to others makes a difference.

@Matthew, Most companies, I think, strive for continuous growth and expansion. I think part of the human condition is to seek more. More money, more love, more whatever. I don’t know if you can always call that greed but I do know there’s something to be said for simple contentment – finding joy in what you already have.

@Milena, I’m off to read your post right now. Your writing is absolutely mesmerizing so I’m sure it will be engaging and compelling. I’m so glad you decided to participate in Blog Action Day. A writer of your caliber can really make a difference.

The corporation’s mindset is continuous improvement.

I’ve worked in many different positions in the company, and with different people. I’m for the continuous improvement mindset, but there is so much resistance from the people who have worked there for so long, it’s incredible. Not a day goes by where I don’t hear someone bitching about the company.

And people wonder why morale is so low in the most workplaces. Gah.