Tomorrow's Foresight

Here, on January 28th, 2011, in the aftermath of another annual ASHI Inspection World, I sit in quiet contemplation. Part of me is still swimming in an ocean of information, and buzzing with an incessant urge to review my class notes. Another part of me has had enough for one week, and just craves rest.

I am remembering the new inspectors I met here this year, and wanting to extend brief communications to keep fledgling relationships alive. I am pleased to have been able to reconnect with old friends and mentors. And yes, even a bit tender as I reflect on the good men in ASHI, manifested by new scholarships and award programs.

I am still stunned by the quality of great presenters, leaders, and fellow inspectors who came together on a quest for self improvement. And I add into the mix, the remarks from others who, obedient to my request, sent me the flaws they saw in this year's program. I need all. I am grateful for the opportunity to make improvement. This is where we begin to build a better tomorrow.

This quiet contemplation on the facets of my life sets me apart from the animals of the earth, and shows a God-given advantage, if not a superior intellect. This reminiscing on the past, while searching for a better future is the fertile soil from which will spring tomorrow's foresight.

The Winners at Inspection World

The annual home inspector’s conference is in motion. Today, Tuesday the 25^th will be the kick-off. At 1:00 pm the vendors will officially open for business. The vendors are here to serve the inspection industry. What is good for home inspectors is good for business, so they are planning product give-aways, informational hand-outs, and one-on-one face time for home inspectors. Of course the vendors are joining ASHI in raffles and free prizes, ranging from flashlights and ipod shuffles to software programs and 200.00 – 500.00 dollar VISA gift cards. Nearly the entire length of the conference, a couple of hours cannot pass without someone being announced as a “winner.”

Just attending Inspection World sets every home inspector apart as a winner. Those relatively few in the home inspection industry who join and support ASHI and it’s programs are nationally respected as the cream of the crop. Narrow that number by those attending Inspection World, and you are now focusing on an impressive cross section of natural leaders from across the country who are dedicated and persistent enough to pay the price to be here. That price is greater for some than for others, but the common denominator is tenacity of purpose. At the end of the day, the experience is always worth the price. Being smart is knowledge; knowledge applied is wisdom; wisdom shared is leadership.

Another winner is ASHI. Every attendee votes with his feet, not only making his preferences known, but determining in a very real way, which organizations will survive the prolonged dips in the economy. Attendance perpetuates an association worth belonging to. Inspection World attendees, by supporting ASHI and the affiliated vendors, are ensuring that the gold standard in the home inspection industry will not only weather the storms, but continue to provide the ongoing training, certification, and cutting edge education which have always set ASHI apart.

Of course, the true winners and ultimate beneficiaries of this herculean effort are the end users, the home inspector’s clients. Buyer’s and sellers of real estate, and those interested in understanding structure, systems, and components are far better served by professionals who take their education seriously. History points out that association with those who live purpose-filled lives, who overcome mediocrity by seeking for greater information, greater skills, and greater connections, will always be an advantage.