I used to be Dan Bullock, but now I'm "Clayton's Dad." And I couldn't be more proud...or relieved. I've had a pretty good run in the community service arena, and I'm not ready to give up quite yet. However, I'm limiting my commitments so that I can actually practice what I preach in another favorite theme...life balance. Thusly, I'm thrilled to see younger generations picking up the mantle of leadership, capitalizing on the legacy of those who've gone before, tapping new skills, using new technologies and confidently stepping into the public arena. As volunteers or aspiring public officials. It's great to see our children following in our footsteps, but more important that they chart their own course and discover their own paths to service. Case in point...Cecile Richards.

Former Texas Gov. Ann Richards' daughter Cecile is stepping away from a stellar stint with the  national Planned Parenthood organization to plan her next political move. We got to hear her on a recent book tour visit to Austin and were duly impressed...and hopeful. But first, some observations about her amazing Mom.

A Charlie Guerrero photo of Gov. Ann and myself at an Austin Headliners Club event...

ANN RICHARDS...The Consummate Politician

Ann got her political baptism of fire as a Travis County Commissioner, using firewater, fiery language and a take-no-prisoners style to quickly establish her bona fides with the good ol' boys in that arena. However, her smart strong women entourage thought her better than that and set their sights on a race for Texas State Treasurer. They knew they'd have to polish some rough edges so she'd be ready for prime time. That's where I was brought into her orbit. I received a call from one of Ann's closest friends, confidantes and political strategists. She invited me to a double-secret "My Fair Lady" grooming session in a basement film studio in downtown Austin.  I was told I was invited "because you're the only banker we can trust." I was honored. We pelted her with banking and finance questions and coached her on handling diverse circumstances while thinking on her feet in front of many cameras. Many friends and counselors helped her on her way. And the rest is history.

Ann went on to become one of our most popular Governors. She had a collaborative style, but expected adversaries to do their homework before they went against her proposals. She didn't suffer fools, and her quick-witted repartee cut down many a politico who expected to run over the "little lady." We miss her. Friends and foes alike. However, we're blessed with another opportunity to support a gifted Richards leader...Ann's daughter Cecile.

Cecile Richards...The Next Generation

The genetics are only part of it. Granted, Ann and Dave model a great heritage. And Dave's still with us. But Cecile's past 12 years with Planned Parenthood, most of those as national spokesperson, give her much more experience than she wanted in a constant hotseat. And she most certainly rose to the occasion, often effectively speaking truth to Congressional power by modeling poise under pressure. Using measured factual retorts to counter ill-prepared fear-mongering rhetoric. She won many debates and won the respect of folks from differing ideologies.

Cecile is smart, articulate, attractive, poised and as prepared for the national stage as any candidate I've seen in years. She's receiving considerable thoughtful counsel as she determines her best path to higher public service. We'll be well served wherever she chooses to apply her considerable strengths and good heart. She'll make us all proud. But, most especially, her Mom.

NOTE: Pick up a copy of her book. You'll be inspired to support this outstanding woman.

A MOSEY CLOSE

These are most unsettling times. We're all being tested. I wanted to be positive and steer a conversation away from the too-obvious and too-frequent political banter. So, I asked a non-profit leader, "What do you consider the most positive catalyst to make you encouraged about your organization's future?" She answered, "Donald Trump." Then went on to say that Trump and his actions are so bad that we're all having to summon our best to counter them. As Cecile challenges, "We've got work to do." Let's join her.

MOSEY Principles: Slow Down, Pay Attention, Be Informed, Act Accordingly. Let's Mosey!