Working Together We
Will Move Ahead
(Possible closing for a QPR gatekeeper presentation)
Conduct your question and answer period as recommended.
After responding to the final question, state: "In closing today, I'd like to share with you a short lesson regarding geese"
Then read the following:
This fall when you see geese heading south for the winter, flying along in a "V" formation, you might be interested in knowing what science has discovered about why they fly that way. It has been learned that as each bird flaps its wings, it creates an uplift for the bird flying immediately behind. By flying in a "V" formation, the whole flock adds at least 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew on its own.
Whenever a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to go it alone, and quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird flying immediately in front. Those geese flying behind honk to encourage those up front to keep up their speed. When the lead goose becomes tired, he rotates back in the formation and another goose takes over flying in the point position.
Finally, when a goose gets sick or is injured and falls out of forma- tion, two geese will fall out of formation and follow it down to help and protect it. They stay with the goose until it is either able to fly or until it dies. They then launch out on their own, or fly with another formation, until they ultimately catch up with their flock.
Tell the audience that: "Just as is the case with geese, people who share a common goal can accomplish things much quicker and easier than if they were working alone. To make progress in decreasing the number of lives lost to suicide, we too must work together. As with the geese, we must offer encouragement to one another and be willing to reach out and support those among us who are struggling. By applying the principles of QPR, you will be doing just that. I am confident that we will make progress together. Thank you"
