The Lifelong Lessons of Cherry-Picking: Balance, Risk, and Reward

When you meet a leader who inspires you, what gift do you give them to say thank you? For me, the beautiful story of the Cherry, written by the Fruiterers Guild is sensational because it teaches us about life.

I was truly humbled to become a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Fruiterers. Cherries have always held a special place in my heart—they are my favourite fruit. As a child, I often found myself clambering up tall cherry trees, drawn to the succulent rewards that seemed just out of reach. Those experiences taught me a valuable lesson: the most desirable things in life often require hard work and a willingness to stretch ourselves, sometimes literally.

However, while we reach for life’s cherries, we must always remember to stay safe. It’s important to measure the risks, for what value is the prize if we cannot savour it? Let this book serve as an inspiration, reminding us that the sweetest, most fulfilling accomplishments are those we’ve earned through perseverance and caution.

May each page turn be a step up your tree, and may you find joy in every cherry you seek.

Sweetest wishes,

Jurga Zilinskiene MBE

Founder & CEO