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On The Bricks

August 29, 2017

Not too long ago I was in conversation with one of my orphans, a former OPSU football player that has become part of the family. We were talking about trust and friends. He finds it much harder to trust people than I do. His expectations are much higher than mine. And when you disappoint him, it is hard to get back up on that friendship ladder with him.

He’s also pretty hard on himself. He is slow to commit to anything, even something as simple as going out to eat, because once he has committed, he does it. He is not about to let someone down.

What’s the difference in his outlook and mine?

Part of the fact is that I’m 35 years older and been disappointed far more times than he, so maybe I consider more of a norm to have someone not follow through. Part of the fact could be that my life has been easier, so getting let down hasn’t had near the complications and heartache as his has. Maybe some of us are just a little lower on expectations because it’s easier.

I do know that he is one of my fast friends. And always will be, if I have anything to say about it. I know, without a doubt, that if he can do what I need, he will do it. I have the same faith in my kids, which makes me proud.
But the real question is … what sort of friend are you? Am I?

There are those that email and say, “Can I come and see you Friday afternoon?” I answer, but I know that there is going to be something else come up by Friday and they won’t be there … so I don’t even put it on the calendar. No sense in even giving it a thought. And, yet, if they do show up, then it’s easy to be happy they are there because you never really expected them to step in the door.

You can look at it as there is always something more important than you … or you can just think, they’re doing the best they can. Seems it all means the same, only one is more positive and forgiving than the other.

Read this quote this morning and this is why my mind has gone here … “Hard work spotlights the character of people: some turn up their sleeves, some turn up their noses, and some don’t turn up at all.” A former professional baseball player, Sam Ewing, said those words.

Last week I confessed to missing my daughter’s bridal shower that was 40 miles away. There’s not much secret as to what sort of friend I lean towards being. This is not something I am proud to admit.

Well, then there’s always something to work on. Something to get better at. Always room for improvement!

Speaking of improving, you might admit and consider attending the Business and Breakfast meetings that begin on the morning of Sept. 6 at the Bank of the Panhandle. You can be a better business owner and manager. There are ways that you and your staff can improve, and make a better bottom line, make a better mark in your community. The free class runs for one hour from 8 to 9 am in the BOP board room. It’s free and you need not be a BOP customer to attend. Call and make your reservation to 338-6246, please.

Let’s all improve together!

See you on the bricks.