THISWAY Communications: Reviews

Have you ever had the fortune of meeting an extraordinary person, someone who can simplify the seemingly complicated with a discerning and insightful outlook on life? I have, and I’d like to introduce you to him. Meet Derrick Mueller, he is an author, an ordained minister, a teacher, an actor, an artist, a communications specialist, a leadership consultant, a CEO, an entrepreneur, a husband and a father. (Imagine squeezing all that onto one business card!) Most importantly, at the core of these many titles, is his one true designation: creator. Everything he has done has been out of a desire to create and to use his creativity with the purpose of making a positive difference in other people’s lives. He has spent his life creating hope and change for others in ways that are never short of innovative. more...

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BOOK FORWARD- The Amaryllis Way-Growing Leaders Who Grow Leaders By Jim Brown

Strolling through the leadership section of any major bookstore, I notice a curious shortfall. There are volumes and volumes of books on leadership, but few on caring for people as leaders. This deficit is perplexing, because leadership, I believe, is about supporting and mobilizing people to achieve goals.

It used to be that a job was all about the paycheck. People were happy just to have employment, but today we’re looking for purpose, validation, and significance. It’s more than work; it’s an identification of who we are. I’m not saying the paycheck is unimportant—I’m saying that recognition for our individual contributions is essential. When companies concentrate on marketing and profits of their products without giving attention to those who make it happen, they not only hinder future productivity but sabotage morale and effectiveness. Great companies and organizations are those that give attention to their people, believing them to be diamonds in the rough.

This is why The Amaryllis Way is such an important book. It presents people as diamonds in the rough, as flower bulbs becoming blossoming plants. The book identifies that people—whether paid or unpaid, in the corporate world or non-profit—will grow and bear fruit if they are growing on the inside. We all benefit when someone believes in us and helps us express the best that is inside us.
I love how Derrick has related the concept of gardening to leaders who are active in coaching and mentoring those under their leadership. And he goes beyond the gardening metaphor in The Amaryllis Way to explain the different meanings of the word and identify a philosophy of leadership. The Amaryllis Way is about seeing the potential, guiding the individual as a shepherd does his sheep, with an attitude of love. It is about leaders developing leaders who develop leaders. The eight ‘P’s of growing people: picture, plan, plow, plant, protect, prune, pollinate, and propagate are memorable and meaningful. They not only depict the different processes of gardening, they condense a textbook full of leadership theory into eight powerful words.

For over a decade Derrick has been helping people in businesses, communities, non-profits, and churches realize the potential they have in each other. He is a coach and mentor to leaders. If we learn only one thing through Derrick’s writing, it’s that we can make a difference. A great leader sees the hidden potential of everyone in the organization. The Amaryllis Way is a delightful story about a coach who intentionally nurtures people, with a life-changing impact, spanning many years.

I recommend this book to anyone in leadership, anyone who is part of a team, anyone who works with people in any capacity—whether as executives, managers, teachers, clergy, or community members. It’s a book of hope and possibility. It’s simple but revolutionary, profound in its simplicity.

Derrick is fueled by a passion to see people succeed. He truly is a gardener of people, a coach, mentor, and teacher who models what he believes.

Jim Brown is the
Founding Partner of Strive!
Author of “The Imperfect Board Member-
Discovering the Seven Disciplines of Governance Excellence”
2008

Not a few young people eagerly agree to serve under luminary leaders hoping to be mentored and developed. Far too many end up damaged and disillusioned after a few years of exploitation and neglect. Derrick Mueller’s narrative convicts and calls leaders to a higher way –in which true leadership is validated through reproductive cultivation of a new leadership generation. As a product and steward of biblical leadership development, I affirm and applaud The Amaryllis Way.

Ralph E. Enlow, Jr. Executive Director of ABHE
Association for Biblical Higher Education

The highest purpose of a leader is to fully participate in the transformational journey of others. In the Amaryllis Way, Derrick provides an intentional approach to growing our own leadership skills, and to creating and protecting a challenging and safe environment for positive change. For leaders who desire to create a legacy of well-developed people who are planted in the convergence of their skill, passions and purpose… this is a reflective and insightful tool.

A modern day parable and a timeless truth. The Amaryllis Way is a call for leaders to return to a relational model of leadership. I believe that the next generation of leaders will more readily embrace a leadership model that is fluid and relational, and will bring much needed change in our culture and structures. Leaders who cling to cold, institutional models prevalent in the past couple decades will need to shift to a fresh but enduring model of growth if they desire to be effective in our Post Modern world. Derrick Mueller has written a narrative that addresses this need. Whether in a business, organization, or church I believe this book taps into longings of every leader… to be loved, valued, mentored, and taught not only to be successful and effective, but also how to shepherd others to do the same.”

A success story of deep self reflection through the philosophy of the “The Amaryllis Way”. A true approach to leadership which builds sustainable relationships and leaders through empowerment. The Amaryllis process takes people development to the next passionate level, and plays a key role, not only in the workplace, but in our personal lives. Dr. Mueller demonstrates an effective and proven approach to believing in the potential of people through emphasizing the positive. Thank you Derrick, for providing such a strong foundation!
Ryan Wilkinson, Manager, Skills Development and Coaching Implementer of the Amaryllis Way in his corporate setting

Scott Bridger Director of Sales, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce
President of Cambridge Big Brothers/Big Sisters

I have had the pleasure of meeting Derrick on several occasions as well as hearing him speak at several local business functions. The book “The Amaryllis Way” was as inspirational and entertaining as his incredible ability to communicate to his audience. Entrenched in the Waterloo Region business community the book has helped me overcome many personal issues and has assisted in my guidance to become a better leader in our community. The stories inside are enlightening and hope you enjoy the book. Great job Derrick well done!!

A heartwarming tale of wisdom and practicality that will help any leader bring out the best in their people. I love Dr. D’s focus on leaders helping other leaders be the best they can be. Every leader needs a mentor because running the business is simple—it’s the people that are complicated!

John Kuypers, Chief Builder, Performance Shift Organization Builders
Author of “What’s Important Now “and “The Non-Judgmental Christian”

Using a captivating contemporary parable, The Amaryllis Way gives us insight and practical tools for growing as individuals, leaders, and increasing our influence in ever enlarging circles. Because life is all about relationships, this inspiring book is for anyone who wants to improve the way they relate, serve, lead, live, and have a desire to make a difference. I highly recommend it.

David Arrol Macfarlane, Director, National Initiatives, The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada

This book addresses one of the deficiencies by way of resources and literature on the subject of human relations perspectives, priorities, and processes toward maximum leadership impact. Given the fact that leadership is not about what we do so much as it is about what we equip and enable others to do this book is a must read for any leader across the span of not for profit, for profit, service and ministry contexts. The eight step model developed in “The Amaryllis Way” serves as a readily applied process to produce thoughtful, continuous, and transformational development of people in contexts where it is applied.
Derrick has wisely used the growth metaphor as the foundation for his work. The narrative style makes this an easy read as well as a profitable read. It will be a very beneficial resource for all of us as we think about how to live out a developmental attitude toward those we influence and lead. Thanks Derrick, for making this resource available to us.

Dr. Paul Magnus, Professor, RJ Bernardo Chair of Leadership
Tyndale College and Seminary Coach/Consultant/Facilitator

Derrick Mueller’s The Amaryllis Way is at once simple, profound, and delightful. It is simple in the sense that it reaches out to a wide readership without having been “dumbed down.” It is profound in that it is based on the sound principles of positive reinforcement, but not manipulation. And his setting of the whole book in the format of a very winsome leadership parable makes it delightful. Transferring The Amaryllis Principle into effective leadership behaviour is enhanced by careful consideration of the final section on “Reflection Questions.”

G. Rowland Phare, President (retired)
G.R. Phare & Assoc., Inc., Consultants to Management.

At last a book that clearly outlines the critical and essential tools that will transform you into becoming an effective and accomplished leader. The Amaryllis Way is an easy read offering profound and practical principles that will revolutionize your approach and understanding of how to lead effectively, encouraging you to embrace your leadership role with confidence, empowerment, and passion. This is an essential resource for leaders in any capacity who strive to be leaders who influence people, nurturing them to nurture others.
At last a book that clearly outlines the critical and essential tools that will transform you into becoming an effective and accomplished leader. The Amaryllis Way is an easy read offering profound and practical principles that will revolutionize your approach and understanding of how to lead effectively, encouraging you to embrace your leadership role with confidence, empowerment, and passion. This is an essential resource for leaders in any capacity who strive to be leaders who influence people, nurturing them to nurture others.

John Vos; Administrator
Sunbeam Lodge, Kitchener, Ontario

The Amaryllis Way is a modern parable with poignant meaning and application for the field and study of human resource development. Derrick’s narrative approach applies horticultural principles to the process of developing leaders.
Developing leaders is a process that must nurture others to their maximum potential. The author has wisely recognized that, “Growing is the process of nurturing people who nurture people.” Jesus fondly referred to His heavenly Father as the true Gardener. Throughout this book the reader will affectionately and allegorically see the eternal truths of the Gardener at work.
Those who are intent on mentoring and coaching others will mine a wealth of nuggets from this author who has learned to be a leadership gardener. Thanks Derrick for imparting such rich meaning into the files of leadership development.
David Schrader, National Pastor (CCCC)Congregational Christian Churches in Canada

Leadership books come in all forms today, but some of the best are stories that convey important truths. Derrick Mueller combines his loves for gardening and leadership development in a compelling story about how leaders train other leaders. His eight step methodology outlined in "The Amaryllis Way" provides a beautiful picture of the heart of leadership. Read it and evaluate your own method of reproducing leaders -- one the greatest needs in the society today.

Marvin Brubacher President, Heritage College & Seminary

On behalf of the organizing committee I am expressing our appreciation for having Derrick speak at our 17th Community Prayer breakfast. God has blessed you with an incredible talent to present the gospel message in a unique manner that gets our attention and also effectively challenges us to grow our faith through our daily living. Thank you for impressing upon each person present at the breakfast that "prayer changes lives", that the God who changed your life is the same God who can impact and change our lives in the same dramatic way.

Thank you for a great show you did last night at Aylmer Evangelical Missionary Church. I haven't laughed like that for as long as I did for a long time.

Our kids will always remember how INCREDIBLE God is, and all about Jonah. Thanks for influencing so many.

A comedic yet heart-warming and realistic view of everyday life….combined with a powerful testimony of God’s ability to turn tragedy to triumph.

Derrick's show is sure to entertain, educate and expand one's horizons. Also, the present Canadian church should deeply consider what Derrick is doing as Christian comedy is very timely, and not a bit subversive (in a very good way!). That is, in a day when the typical picture of an evangelical is that of a scowling fanatic, When I Look Back I Laugh challenges these stereotypes with its very human and very humourous message. Derrick is a constant showman. Even those who have seen the show will no doubt be surprised by some new story or insight that he injects into it.

DERRICK'S STORY

In a society where today’s families seem to be disintegrating at increasing rates, Derrick’s background was no different. At the age of three his mother left his dad leaving him with two small children.

After a while, it was apparent that Derrick's father could not work and take care of both him and his sister. Social services became involved and the journey from foster home to foster home began.

After five years and approximately seven different foster homes he now found himself beginning a new life with a mother, stepfather, and new sister who he did not know. At the age of eight he had become a skeptical young man questioning and doubtful of any stability.

Derrick recalls one Christmas saying good night to three different fathers: his real father, his stepfather, and his foster father. Life didn’t seem to get any better.

His school experience was characterized by being academically challenged and bullied by his peers. The end of high school dubbed him as an outcast, and home life didn’t get any better. Derrick's real father’s visits became less frequent, and his conflict with his stepfather intensified. His mother became suicidal and alcoholic. Daily living became a battle to stay alive.

Rejected by his peers and dubbed the problem kid at home, he soon found no reason to live. Derrick comments, “I tried to cope with by running away and attempting suicide.” At the age of fourteen he hung a rope over a beam in bedroom in the basement and decided that he was tired of living with the pain of rejection. In that moment of doubt and despair he cried out to God for love and found hope for the first time.

His experience with a High School Christian group became instrumental in his acceptance of Christ and his walk with God. Derrick remarks, “Some people say that Jesus is a crutch. They are right you know, but at least I can walk.”

Press Release- LIFE IS FUNNY

The ten year running show “When I Look Back I Laugh” is a humorous production about the stages of life with it’s beginnings in Western Canada. It is a freewheeling mix between the antics of Tim Allen, the style of Bill Cosby, and the values of Seventh Heaven, all rolled into one entertaining and unpredictable ride. The stage comes alive as each prop turns into a story. From ninja cooking on stage, to flash back disco or to hospital antics the comedy is sure to entertain the whole family.
“When I Look Back I Laugh” is performed by Derrick Mueller an energetic and hilarious communicator. Mueller offers a perspective on life that all age groups can relate to. Watch as the stage transforms into a series of interactive, funny and inspiring stories.
The drama is inspiring, heart tugging and real life. Mueller gives not only something to laugh about but also something to be encouraged with and live by. You won’t know whether to laugh, cry or take notes.

WILBIL EVENT IDEAS

Though not essential these are a variety of ideas, of little things, that can be added to the decoration and to the evening as a whole. Below are some samples of ideas that have been used in past performances.

1. Decorating - Use of the happy face motif such as the yellow happy faces can add to the setting. Happy face plates and streamers add to the decor. Some have used yellow and black as the colors. Table decorations included yellow candles on paper happy face plates, or happy face gift bags with flowers, etc inside.

2. Door Prizes - This is an excellent tool to get addresses for follow-up. “A Look Back I Laugh” book can be used as a prize upon request if available. Comic books or gifts wrapped in the newspaper funny section can emphasis the funny aspect of the event.

3. Coffee and Cookies - This is an idea for after the production. It gives time for people to fellowship with one another, and gives the opportunity to get books and tapes signed.

4. Dinner Theater - The production is ideal for a Dinner theater format. The sitting down and having a meal or refreshments adds to the whole atmosphere, and contributes to a relaxed atmosphere (This is not essential but recommended.)

5. Radio - A cassette tape of some of the material is available for clips, or as a complete program. Sometimes in smaller areas a complete half-hour program is available.

6. Local Papers – We can email you a series of short stories that can be placed in local papers as humorous articles on the family as well as advertising the upcoming event.

7. Dessert Evening - Instead of a Dinner a Dessert buffet could be used as a sit down event or an after the production it depends on whether tables are being used.

8. Photo Albums - Depending on the event, photo albums, memorabilia, and flashes from the past can be used as display items at the event. It provides some milling around opportunities. (e.g. Baby pictures, family shots, etc.)

9. Funny Moments - At some banquets a hand out was prepared asking for funny family moments. These were placed on the tables and at the beginning of the program people were asked to write down their response and share with their table. They would be collected during the meal and read randomly with a prize given to the person whose contribution was read.

10. Helium Balloons - Helium balloons with the ticket #’s or prizes inside can be part of the décor or the centerpiece. At the end or predetermined portion of the program they can be broken or deflated to reveal to the person whether a prize has been won!

PROP LIST

Key: To give as genuine a feel to each of the sets, extra stuff that adds environment is appreciated. The stage is arranged in three sections starting with Kitchen on stage right, living room center stage, and nursery stage left. The play is based on using the props; each prop is a story or sketch. If you cannot get something let us know, we are flexible.
a) Kitchen (Stage Left)
table and chairs *
two dinner settings, glasses, water pitcher
coat tree
cupboard or open book shelf
pot and pan
mixing bowl
cutting board *
salad fixings (large iceberg lettuce, cucumber, carrot, celery, etc), please do not cut
laundry hamper with misc. clothing (towels, pants, nightgown, etc)
candle with holder and matches *
ironing board and iron *

b) Living Room (Centre Stage)
couch and/or arm chair *
end table with lamp plugged in *
telephone *
floor plant
wall hangings
photo album
pictures to hang on the wall

c) Nursery (Stage Right)
crib
change table *
stuffed animals
doll that looks baby size to audience
sleepers
diapers
blankets
bottles
diaper pail
tall standing floor fan or small one on table *

* Indicates essential to stage requirements.

TECHNICAL DETAILS FOR WILBIL PRODUCTION

Room design is dependent on several factors, space available, whether you are doing a dinner theatre and stage. Below are some suggestions, an elevated area is preferable for the stage.

1) Meal tables - round tables to seat 8 - 10 people are preferable

2) Approximately 5 - 8ft tables are needed for displays, registration, etc.
a) Sound and Lighting Tech. Table
b) 2 tables for displays, should have room for people to mingle
c) 1 registration table placed just outside the room
d) For buffet style dinners, etc. the tables should be easily accessible from both sides
e) Please arrange people as close to the stage as possible

3) Warm lighting

on each table is optional but it does help create a mood. Candles could be used but they create too much heat in a small location and would advise against using them.

4) Halogen Lighting - (the decorative living room style) are ideal for giving light and developing a mood. Many people have these lamps. 5-10 strategically placed gives a warm feeling.

NOTE: Upon booking we will evaluate with you if any extra lighting is required.

STAGING

We will work with what ever you have to make your event successful. A raised stage is key for viewing. Below are some ideas of staging requirements for making the event successful.

1) When arranging stage platforms – ideal height should be no lower than height of dinner table, three feet minimum. People need to see 75% of the props on stage while sitting down looking over other people’s heads.

2) The room that the event takes place in should have an extended ceiling of 25 feet minimum. Basements usually don’t work well.

3) Measurements of Stage
a) width - min 12 ft ( 16ft ideal)
b) length - min 18-24 ft
c) height - min 3 ft (people sitting need to see at least above the knee
(note: more space is ideal)

4) Stage will contain 3 mini sets that blend together. Kitchen, Living Room and Nursery.
5) See diagram on following page

NOTE: A digital picture of the area available sent to us would be helpful.

LIGHTING

Each location varies in what they have for lighting. Depending on the location of the event we may bring lighting requirements in part or whole with us. Below is the ideal arrangement though we are flexible.

1) It is ideal we have additional stage lighting that focuses only on the stage, can be adjusted and dimmed. Where color filters are available - blue, green, yellow, and red add a nice touch.

2) A minimum of a two light stand set up with preference for three to give a balanced light set up. Floodlights at floor level don’t work.

3) Three different areas need focus as the presentation has three different scenes on stage.
a) living room
b) kitchen
c) nursery
Color Filters - such as yellow and pink are ideal

4) One person to run lights is needed.

5) Depending on the requirement an additional fee for lighting may be incurred.

6) In most situations we will bring our own spot light.

SOUND

1) A Sound System with a CD player or laptop (preferred).

2) One mike and stand depending on individual program.

3) For Comedy Program a lapel mike is essential and head set is preferred.

4) Sound Tech familiar with how to hook up mike etc. is essential.

5) I will not have a technician with me.

6) Background music needs to be provided during meal etc.

7) If possible a CD and video recording would be appreciated.

ADVERTISING CHECK LIST

0 Church Bulletins
0 Area Churches
0 Community Bulletin Boards
0 Newspaper calendar of events
0 Newspaper articles/Press Release
0 Cable TV Community Ads
0 Handbills placed in stores
0 Community Store Fronts
0 Radio/TV interviews (where available)
0 Local book stores
0 Local Libraries
0 Internet sites, etc