Gratitude Focus: Grateful For People Who Have Your Back

Reflection/Why I’m Grateful:

Having people around you who truly have your back—and who think critically about the business—is invaluable. As I move into my seventh year at the helm of Midwest BankCentre, I’ve watched the retirement of two CFOs, a chief credit officer, and a number of sales bankers. When I reflect on those transitions, I’m deeply grateful.

Each of them helped shape this institution and advance the work we care about most—strengthening communities and helping people reach their goals. Their fingerprints are on this place.

Marsha stands out. An exceptional leader. A heart always in the right place. A mind that stayed sharp and steady. She will be missed.

One of the greatest leadership lessons I’ve learned is this: you don’t do meaningful work alone. You need good people around you—people who challenge you, steady you, and carry the mission with integrity.

I believe God has something bigger in store for Midwest BankCentre. I’m grateful for those who helped us get here—and just as grateful for those who will help us reach the next finish line, serve the next client, and climb the next hill.

“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.”
— Proverbs 20:18

Who are the people whose wisdom, character, and commitment have helped carry you to where you are today?

— Reflection Question

Hi, I’m Orvin Kimbrough, volunteer, board director, chairman, and CEO. I help professionals move from feeling stuck to being strengthened by reshaping how they think, lead, and live. My work focuses on confidence, leadership, and influence through mindset shifts, expanded networks, and bold, values-aligned action. My perspective is rooted in lived experience, from growing up in foster care to leading complex institutions as a CEO and shaped by faith, resilience, and a deep belief in human potential.

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Books for Every Stage

Twice Over a Man

A memoir often described as a leadership guide wrapped in an honest, relatable story of perseverance, healing, and growth. It explores how pain can be reframed into purpose and how ordinary people build meaningful lives through courage and clarity.

More Than a Conqueror

Written for teens and young adults, this book encourages confidence, resilience, and identity formation during the years when self-belief is being shaped.

Ward and the State

A children’s book that gently introduces big ideas like belonging, courage, and hope, helping young readers see themselves as more than their circumstances

INTRODUCING: The Thriver’s Path™

This blog is part of The Thriver’s Path™—a growing ecosystem of writing, courses, reflections, and community designed to help people of all ages reframe their thinking, reclaim their agency, and take their next meaningful move.

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Tags: Gratitude