Life Rules

Did you count your blessings today...I did.

  

I do every day and suggest in some way...small or great you do too.

  

I lost a friend last night and while he had lived a good life and had known what he was facing for years...the day came too soon.

  

I had the great pleasure of addressing his sales team every Christmas for the past 3 years and while I told him it was my honor (no charge)...he always gave me a gift.

  

He was a sales professional well into his eighties and was married to the love of his life well over 50 years.

  

That alone should tell you a lot about him.  Here are some simple Life Rules as I saw them exhibited through his deeds...

  

#1 - Love your spouse. 

  

50 plus anything goes "beyond love" into a realm of dedication and commitment few of us understand or will ever experience.  We joked that my age was less than his marriage...wow!

  

#2 - Love your job.

  

At a time when he could have just "phoned it in" he was still running his agency.  He called me often to brainstorm and figure out ways to help his team become more successful.  He was always concerned about their welfare and success.

  

I have always said sales is a profession from which you never have to retire...and he never did.

  

#3 - Smile often and never get mad. 

  

When I met him professionally back in 2008 (and we weren't friends yet), I had to give him news that I knew impacted him negatively...about opportunity and money. 

  

His reaction?

  

He smiled, patted me on the back and said, "Brandon...it's ok...we will make money another way."

  

#4 - Make people feel important...because they are.

  

No matter the venue, he always stepped back from the spotlight.  He always highlighted others lauding praise and thanksgiving on their accomplishments and contribution. 

  

It may not have always been a swanky affair, but he always made you feel...important.

  

I know it shouldn't take a passing to make us feel thankful for what we have, what we do and the loved ones in our lives but it cant help but give us a deeper reflection of those things.

  

That is my state of awareness right now...my sore knee...big deal...

  

The 8,000 words due today that will not get done...it's ok...

  

The inbox of unanswered emails...they will wait...

  

Someone is without their husband...their father...their friend.

  

It can all wait until tomorrow to allow me the chance to cry...one day for my friend. 

  

Until tomorrow...