I am always mindful of the prescient things that so many special people in my life share–those who offer their perspectives, their own lessons and observations–whether they be shiny, happy shares or the things that are at times more difficult to hear, though generally more valued than the upside musings
Last night we attended a donor appreciation event sponsored by Lowell General Hospital–a generous and well planned event. It was the 2nd fundraiser event we have attended in the past 4 days, sponsored by Lowell’s largest two employers; UMASS and Lowell General/Circle Health.
The UMASS brunch on Sunday was low key, pleasant and appreciated–hosted by Pride Star EMS and the Daley family on behalf. I always appreciate hearing Jackie Maloney speak about the strides being made at UMASS–both because of the incredible job they have been doing there for the last few years, on behalf of our community. But also, because, well, she is just so pleasant and real–a terrific story of local success–when so many local appointments don’t necessarily go to the most qualified to maintain and/or create momentum and progress. She’s really great–and genuinely concerned about having to stay extra days in Florida as storms threatened to shut Logan down.
Last night’s event, sponsored by LGH was really special too. Of course, its hard to mess up a sunset boat ride in Naples Florida while “back home” the ground is heaped with ice and snow. They did not. Passed hors d’oeuvres, 3 decks, 2 bars, full dinner, and a tour through the waterways of Naples to the gulf of Mexico for the sun going down, as giant mansions along our route created oohs and aahs–those built and/or owned by the likes of Jon Bon Jovi, Larry Bird, Mary Kay Cosmetics, Dave Thomas of Wendy’s, the founder of Aetna insurance, etc.–the kind of homes you once watched on “Lifestyles of the rich and famous” and “Cribs.” The type of homes that humble just a tad but also remind us of the good fortune we have each have to be able to be where we were, seeing what we were seeing, day to day stresses forgotten for the time being. On the macro level, we were reminded of the greatness that can be achieved in our country, and also, the freedom to dream and aspire for greater success.
But for me, as I stayed up late with my father in law after returning “home”, sitting on a porch in the dark (and oddly freezing Naples nighttime air) drinking bourbon and smoking an end-of-day cigar, it was the blessing of those that surround us who make life enriching–giant house, big house, small house–meaningless if your life does not include love, and friendship, health and family. And freedom.
And, as we reviewed the evening, the number of laughs and the many, many compliments that were passed along regarding our restaurants, and our managers, and our staff, we knew how fortunate we were to have such freedom. After 23 years at Cobblestones, and 9 years at moonstones…after 40 years of working passionately and doggedly, I know that beyond establishing procedures, and relationships, and reputation, and consistency and all those things that lead to success, it is the loyalty of those who lead in my stead whether I am local or I am away, that provide as much security and fulfillment than any amount of square footage, water frontage or edgeless pool ever will. This is the 4th month of March in (4) years that I have “left town”–to travel, to catch up on missed opportunities with friends and family through the years, to re set my mind, and to give “my people” a break–from me!! (mostly) Such would not be possible without their commitment to our mission, to me, to our guests, to knowing right from wrong.
“You can buy intelligence and hard work (and big houses) but you cannot buy loyalty.” James L. Moynihan (The Irish Philosopher)
To all of YOU…Slainte!
(We are so very lucky)
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