As is likely true for most readers, though hard work, a constant learning curve, and a little luck have combined well for me, it was mentors selflessly adding new possibilities to my menu who made so many positive outcomes even possible. They showed me where the pockets of light were in the dark times — and, more importantly, where the light switches were. How to leverage new skill sets and knowledge into useful and productive results for clients. But most of all, to become a mentor whenever possible. I’ve done this, if only to honor the frequent detours of their valuable time on my behalf.
All of them are gone now.
When thinking of them, which is often and fondly, a feeling of tremendous gratitude and a bit of frustration wash over me. Though I routinely thanked them for their priceless gifts, there’s always that nagging frustration — somehow I could’ve shown more gratitude. The lessons imparted weren’t limited to the nuts ‘n bolts of being a real estate investment broker. One thing they shared was the core belief that regardless of the times, those who kept plowin’ the fields, day in, day out, would always have their barn filled with enough, if not a surplus, come harvest time.
That one nugget of wisdom has kept me talkin’ to the mule, while plowin’ the field far past sundown more times than I can remember. I’ve not once been let down when it came time to bring in the harvest. That surely doesn’t mean there weren’t years when hamburger helper wasn’t a staple. It meant that I was still standing — ready to compete when the excrement stopped hittin’ the whirling blades. I learned as a young man that sometimes winning/success = survival. For many these days that’s surely the reality.
None of us are immune, most of us have been there, done that. But to those who’re experiencing their first go-round in this kinda rodeo, I offer heartfelt encouragement.
Grandma was right when she told you to keep your head down, and keep workin’ hard ‘n smart one day at a time. Read more
