Time is Running Out!

I went to funeral today for a dear friend who died suddenly. He was 42. He worked out regularly. He was not overweight. He was socially active. He was a successful businessman. 

His heart stopped Sunday. The funeral was today (2 days later). 

The funeral home was packed to overflowing. There were easily 500 people there; not counting the people who were turned away. 

Here is what the speakers who did the eulogy spoke about. 

He was honest. Yes, there are honest used car sales people. One person talk about how he purchased a car from him because of the trust he inspired. A warranty was purchased at the same time. The company behind the warranty went out of business. This gentleman called the person he purchased the car from and told him about the problem with the warranty.  He offered to pay the entire cost of the repair.

His family talked about how he blossomed from a shy young man into a outgoing and successful business owner, who stilled called his parents every week.

His friends talked about how he remembered everything: names of family, birthdates, etc. 

His associates talked of his love of Michigan football (Alumni), his love of the debate and interaction, his parties, his respect for others, his integrity and the motorcycle he owned but never rode.

Time is running out. We do not know when we will be called.

If you were called today, would you have the turnout this gentleman had?

If you were called today, would you have people talking about your honesty, integrity, and passion for what you do? The impact you made in the lives of others simple because you did what you loved?

If you were called today, would your sister stand up and talk about how you cared so much for your nieces and nephews? How you took the time to send them a text message. How you took them on a field trip. 

Would you customers give testimonials about how much they trusted and respected you? 

Would your associates give testimonials about how they thought of you as family, not just an employer? 

What is the message you are leaving with others after each interaction? 

Are you living your life’s purpose? Is it reflected in what you say? Is it reflected in how you treat others? Is it reflected in how you treat your family? Is it reflected in what you do, who you are, and how you act? 

It was with Randy Geller. I will miss you my friend. 

Ron Finklestein