Paying it forward

During my corporate stint, my paycheck used to say, "Your compensation provided by satisfied customers worldwide" or something along those lines. I always liked that sitting on the bottom of my checks, in small script. In a four billion dollar (in annual sales) company, it was easy to get lost and not feel like my grind made a difference.

As a blue collar guy and business owner, I see and receive feedback directly from my customers, sometimes on a daily basis. It does feel good to be in the direct line of fire. I make proper and sound decisions because they are the correct way to accomplish tasks, among many not so hot choices, and my customers are happy. They don't see the little things, the extra effort, and that does not really matter. I can take pride in a job well done with just a thank you...and a check.

I hadn't, however, considered my impact on those who I have work for me/with me. They work, I direct them to do a quality job, and at the end of the day, they are paid fairly. Tonight, I paid a visit to a guy who worked with me often over this winter/early spring. His normal gig was extremely seasonal and income followed suit. Not this year. By working with me in his off-season, he earned enough to pay for spendy dental work that was sorely needed. His smile is infectious now. He bought and installed a pool for his little girl to enjoy this summer. And, he has been able to retain his home even when his wife lost her job.

Hey, I am NOT saying I take credit for his fortune. He worked, I paid him fairly. I am just very happy that my good fortune is his good fortune. And though I pay people in the normal construction manner (cash baby, cash), the small script at the bottom of the PB&J Houseworks checks would say, "Our good fortune is your good fortune. Enjoy."

Enjoy.