Three Words to Close Out 2023

At LRI’s 40th Anniversary Gala, poet and emcee of the evening, Chachi Carvalho (2020 Pi II) gifted our network with his interpretation of what it means to be a part of Leadership Rhode Island.

Let his evergreen message remind you that in the months ahead, challenges can be made lighter, and joys be made greater, when we lean into our connections.

As a re-read the poem, I found lines that resonated deeply with stories from this year’s newsletter. If there’s a line that strikes you, click the link and see what story it takes you to.

Best Class Ever
By: Chachi Carvalho, 2020 Pi II

It has never been a competition
It has always been acknowledgment of our connection to each other 
Strangers quickly unite as brothers in search of that ever elusive best version of self
The unwavering need to do more
To help more 
To be more
That is the fabric that unites us
We are never satisfied with now
We fearlessly run toward the future 
Knowing that each step we take
Brings us closer to the person we aim to be
Our classmates are branches from the same tree 
Our LRI family and our colleague cohorts
All exist within the same forest
And we grow tall 
Our leaves are a vibrant constellation of stories 
And between us are only paths of more connection

So breathe

I got you and I know you got me
We are Leadership Rhode Island
We are stronger together 

It has never been a competition
It has always been acknowledgment of our connection to forever
And the world knows who we are
It is easily explained with three simple words

BEST. CLASS. EVER!