Keith I loved your thoughts on vision. I agree that a true vision is intimately connected to core values.

However, I think I would take it a step further. What if a vision isn’t simply “based on core values” but “is” core values.

Maybe that is the secret to a great vision. For example, MLK. The power of his speeches were that they came from his bones and blood. You sensed this isn’t just a speech, this is his life. Almost, like it was impossible to tell where his vision ended and his core values began. Maybe that was because his core values of justice, racial reconciliation, non-violence, love, etc. were the vision! In fact as I think about his speech it is all about the “who!” Who America is called to be! Who we as human beings are called to be! Which to me communicates core values: who we are.

Take NH for example. The core values of reaching the lost, real relationships, and openness and transparency aren’t just stepping stones to the vision… in a mysterious way they are the vision.

For my company Fuor. Our core values of quality and creativity are the vision of the company. The “thing”: web design, print design, web apps, forums, online stores, etc. Those aren’t our heart and soul, they may change tomorrow. In fact we have thought about leaving web sites behind. However, this wouldn’t change our vision.

Another example, (specific to NH) is the Runnels Home Team. When they are sharing their “vision” they simply talk about their core values. Josh says something to the effect of, “Hey let’s not forgot who we are. We are here to form real community and to learn to really love each other.” Their core values and vision are one and the same.

This seems quite different than the way vision is usually defined. Normally core values are the “who”, vision is the “what”, and strategies are the “how.”

Crazy to think the these two things that I have always tried to separate, are one and the same.

Of course I could be totally wrong! haha Thoughts?

I’m an ignorant git, though I have a dream that one day I won’t be.

Love the blog. Great theme choice.

I should have my blog re-done and up in the very near future. I will definitely link to you.