“Pretty much all the honest truth telling there is in the world is done by children.”
Oliver Wendell Holmes
Kenny regularly speaks before corporate executives who, as astute business leaders, critically evaluate his message and content. While he often receives rave reviews from these corporate titans, perhaps the real test of Kenny’s value comes from children. Moore found this out when asked to be one of many presenters as an "Executive/Author" at the annual "Career Day" for 7th Graders at Washington Park Middle School which his youngest son attends in Totowa, NJ. Kenny's 20 minute presentations - followed by Questions and Answers ... and ending with general mayhem - seemed very much in line with Moore's style. Students seemed to have reacted favorably to the chaos; teachers, less so. Moore spoke about Plato's "Acorn Theory." - i.e., we are all born with an “acorn” that is destined to grow into a mighty Oak; often referred to as our “destiny” or “vocation,” cooperating with our “acorn” is what will ultimately bring us happiness. What might 12 year olds, raised in the quick-changing world of instant messaging, ultimately have to say about a business executive and former Catholic monk discussing an ancient Greek Philosopher regarding life’s meaning and purpose?
Following the Career Day, the school’s Guidance Department asked the students to evaluate the day. Here’s some of what came back:
“All of the speakers who came in on Career Day were great. It was amazing how working adults could be formal, yet convivial and friendly all at the same time. However, the one speaker who stood out the most was author, Kenny Moore. Mr. Moore and I had a discussion prior to his classes given later on. I knew instantly this man was used to talking eye-to-eye to younger people. Later that day I discovered that it wasn’t just children Mr. Moore appreciated. It was all people, and what shocked me the most was that it was his job. A job that makes you and other people feel good about themselves. Who knew such a job even existed? Personally I would not have chosen this career if I had a choice. After seeing a man with such generosity, I will probably consider becoming an executive of a company. It just requires a little work and kindness.”
“Dear Mr. Kenny Moore,
I have to admit, I had a great time. You had many interesting topics, such as your knowledge of the Greek Scholar, Plato. You showed that education is important but working harder is even more important. I also think that you showed enthusiasm, which really kept the classes going. I could tell that you must relate to people with very well. Another part I enjoyed about your presentation was the acorn. It was an interactive subject, and showed how life goes. There is also another thing to which I took a liking to, and that would be your book. That book must of ment so much to you, knowing where you ended up. Mr. Moore, your presentation was inspiring, and I want to thank you for it.”
“During last week’s Career Day, I found Mr. Moore very inspiring. He really taught me a lot about the philosophy of the acorn inside of every person and how it represents our purpose in life and the world. Hearing him speak was very interesting and fun and it really made me think about my purpose in life. Mr. Moore really made being an author and executive of a large company seem interesting. I never really considered being an author or executive when I grew up but now it’s something I may definitely consider. I really liked listening to Mr. Moore and I hope I get the chance to meet him again.”
“I enjoyed listening to all of the speakers, but I have to say my favorite was Kenny Moore who was an executive/author. I really learned something valuable from him. I enjoyed learning about how an acorn can represent more than just something that grows on a tree. Now I feel excited about trying to find out what my acorn is, and how I can use it in the future. I think that is a good story to pass on to other people as well! I was very impressed by Mr. Moore spoke, and really got into telling a special story that I will remember even when I am older, and find my acorn.”
“I liked all of the speakers but Kenny Moore’s presentation stuck out for me. He made me really think about what I’m good at and what I want to do by using the acorn. The acorn was a good way to explain that we are all meant to do something special and that we all have something special about us. I enjoyed finding things out about him, such as he was a monk, had cancer and had a heart attack. He had a very interesting story to tell and I enjoyed hearing it. I would like to have him back to talk more about these subjects as we did not get to hear a lot in the limited time. Despite his nervousness, he was a very good speaker.”
“I enjoyed all the speakers, but Kenny Moore was the best! He was very inspiring. He said that everyone has an acorn in them and when they find what they were meant to do, it grows. Ken believes that everyone has a purpose. Moore wasn’t good in school but then he was able to go to college and get a degree. He was also able to publish his own book. I didn’t like his job but I loved his speech.”
“The most interesting presentation in my opinion was done by Mr. Moore, the business executive and author. I wouldn’t necessarily choose this job choice, but his presentation really stuck inside my head. It makes me want to think about my own purpose in life and my 'acorn.' I would love to learn more about this intriguing method. The presentation has made me look to find my “acorn” which then I can pursue my purpose and my future career.”
“I found the author Kenny Moore very interesting. One of the things I would like to do was be an author. I liked how he talked about the meaning of life and your acorn which got me really interested. He also was really funny. I hope to see Mr. Moore next year. Mr. Moore was also one of the best presentations in my opinion.”
“I really liked Mr. Moore’s presentation. How he was saying about the acorn and how we make us what we want to be. He speaks to help people and with my career I choose I get to do the things I love. Help people and deal with children. That’s why I am going to be a doctor in a hospital for little kids. Mr. Moore said we all have a meaning in life. We just need to find it. So thank you for the wonderful insite.”
“Dear Mr. Moore;
One thing I liked most about your career is that you’re an author. I think I would like being an author because you get to write about whatever you want. You get to express your feelings. When I grow up, I would like to share my stories with others. I’ve written two stories since the 6th grade and would love to write more. I would definitely enjoy being an author.”
“Mr. Moore. I thought you were the most interesting guy for Career Day. I liked how you explained Playdos theory about the acorn. I also like how you wrote your book “The CEO and the Monk.” I too like to write storys but I never finish them. You were probably the one who was full of life the most, out of all the other career people. Thank you for coming to school and I hope you come back next year with more cool theorys and for stuff to talk about.”
“I was really moved and touched by Mr. Moore’s speech. His words and thoughts are very true. He spoke logically and motivationally. He is very smart, clever, and well educated. I respect him very much because of what his job involves doing, and how much pride he takes in doing his job. He goes beyond what he’s supposed to do and shows his appreciation to his workers. He is kind, considerate, thoughtful and strong. He wanted to lead a better life and started a new road after becoming a monk. I appreciate what he does and how dedicated he is to his job. Mr. Kenny Moore is classy guy. If I had the chance, I would always go to Mr. Moore for advice. He inspired me, and gave me a new mindset. Thank you Mr. Moore.”
“I found that the Executive/author was the most interesting speaker. He was very funny and creative. I suit this career very well because I like to give joy to other people and I like to express my ideas with drawing. I never knew that this job could put you on t.v.”
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