December 12, 2009
As the most difficult year since I started Affordable in 1992 draws to an end, I reflected on Thanksgiving and look forward to the remainder of the year that will soon be on us.
During the four days of Thanksgiving my sister and her husband, and our daughter and her husband were with us for a wonder Thanksgiving evening dinner at the home of a family of lifetime friends since childhood. We had a wonderful time. I thought just how lucky we are, with great friends, a wonderful family and husbands for the ladies that are so dear to me.
Christmas will be here soon. Just the other day someone asked if I was ready, I said: I don’t think it matters, either way, it will be here soon. Well truth be told, this year, the first in many, I am almost ready. Maybe the lull in business gave me the time to devote to matters of the Christmas holiday or the realization of what is really important.
I spoke with another friend, Jurgen. Jurgen was a consultant I hired to help me take more control of Affordable, his insight, actions and dedication was a pivotal factor in allowing us to purchase our building. Just a week or two before we took possession of our building Jurgen was offered a position managing the European division of an American company. While on the phone, Jurgen told me that the economic downturn started in Germany in May of 2008, and economic factors and durable goods orders started to show signs of improvement by the middle of 2009, and that orders are now indicating they will be back to normal within 2 years. I wished Jurgen and Linda a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
After I hung up the phone with Jurgen I called Sophia in Greece. I spent 4 years in Greece from 1970 to 73 and made more lifelong friends. George, Sophia’s son answered the phone, it scared me; Sophia is nearly 84. George tells me that his father’s sister is in the hospital and when she passes, Sophia will be alone. Everyone in the family with the exception of George has passed. Sophia told me the weather was beautiful, and she was fine. I wished George, his wife, and Sophia a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Today is my birthday. Sandi and I picked out a tree today, went to the mall for some shopping and had dinner out together.
My ramblings are to make a point. Although 2009 has been very difficult, it is through adversity we grow into better people, better businesses……for me 2009 has been a catalyst that helped me see what is important in business and my personal life, and helped me appreciate things.
My holiday wish is that everyone take some time to do something good for another, the smallest kind deed can make a big difference in someone’s life and yours. Pray for peace. Thanks Randy
