07:02 May 11 2008
Times Read: 1,563
I received a letter in the mail today. It looked personal rather than something business oriented. So much of my mail is junk - credit card offers, verizon ads, bills... getting something that looks hand written and personalized always catches my eye.
Especially when the return address was from Memphis. Now, I have friends and business associates in the Memphis area, but why would one of them out of the blue just send me a letter?
Ignoring all the other mail, including a check I had been waiting for, I opened this letter first.
It was from a former employer; the owner of the company I worked for before I opened my own business.
David was a friend. Well, still is. We just haven't talked much since he had to close his business and rebuild his life. He hired me in the fall of 2001, shortly after 9/11 to help him with a project. After the project was over he wanted my help in boosting sales for his company. Things weren't going well for him - tightening contracts, debt and then the slump in the technology market following 9/11. He was hoping my sales experience and the clients and contacts I had on my side would help him dig out of the hole his company was in...
...unfortunately it was too little, too late. One Monday morning in April 2002, he called me and told me he had to close up shop.
It was abrupt. It was hurried. He left a lot of loose ends hanging and really had to go into hiding for a while from his employees... and former employees, going after him for monies owed.
He left owing me over $3000.
By gones.
Business isn't personal, and I hold no grudges.
His letter surprised me. Even more surprising was, enclosed with the letter, was a check. Not a lot... not what he owed me. It felt more like a thank you, and an attempt to make amends somehow.
At least, that is the feeling I got from it.
The letter caused me to do a little self-reflection and I found myself lost in thought after reading it. I know things haven't been easy for him the last six years. He has had to rebuild his life and move in a different direction. He relocated to Memphis and went back to school... and still, years later he hasn't forgotten the debts he owed.
No phone call.. no email...
...just this letter, wishing me well. Hoping things are going good for me.
And a check.
I look at this... in life... as one of those... "it comes around moments."
Even though it's been years since we've spoke, I think he knows now, as he did then, I hold no ill regard toward what happened. I knew his situation when I signed on... it happens.
And as I run my business... just as I always have been in life... I give. I give of myself, and I try to share my good fortune in life as much as I can.
I guess that is one of the reasons I do work so hard... I want this business to be successful. I want to leave something for my children to grow and succeed with.
Even more though, I want to leave my mark on the world in this way.
To build a business that is successful and gives back to those who need it.
Kind of like Robin Hood.... except no stealing, no tights and we actually provide good services!
Until I get to the point that my finances allow me to give as much as I want... I will still give what I can.
It's just who I am.
And hopefully that good "Karma" will keep.. comin' round.
....I see a trip to Memphis in my future.
COMMENTS
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Morrigon
18:15 May 30 2008
I love being able to see in my mind perhaps what you sat watching hours ago...
Brave traveler, lay down your burden and pay us a visit. Here, food, spirits, and laughter await you.
Perhaps a shoulder rub too. >.>
KCRC
18:58 May 31 2008
Nice prose Mr. Birra!