Consult a lawyer

Recently, I was contracted to handle a conference.  The client sent me the agreement and asked me to hurry and get it back to her because they want to start March 1.  It looked pretty reasonable to me but, as a precaution, I had a lawyer review it.

She found a major oversight as the client indicated that the fee included hotel and airfare. That would have required me to pay upwards of $3,000.  It was the client being slick but it was caught.  I talked to her and after going back and forth, they relented and paid it.

So, had I not faxed it to my attorney, I would have absorbed my own airfare and lodging.  The fee I paid her was well worth the mistake that would have cost me thousands.

Thank you, Counselor.

Forget the past - make it right

Many years ago, I worked with a theater company and had a minor tussle with the director, causing me to leave.  I regretted it because we had genuine respect and affection for one another.  But it happened and I left ....but never made it right.

Fast forward 30 years:  She now lords over a beautiful theater built from the ground up. Her theater is a Chicago mainstay and she is truly doing AWESOME things.  Yesterday, I went to the theater and saw a great show as well as saw the new structure -- which is a monument to her tenacity. Luckily, she was there.

We hugged and I complimented her on her success.  Suddenly, 30 years were washed away as we exchanged numbers, pleasantries and vowed to pick up where we left off.  We didn't have to apologize because the vibes were so positive.  The looks we exchanged were genuine.

But, there is a lesson in that:  I was too immature to do the right thing then but I'm poised to make it right now.

Indulge guilty pleasures

I didn't want to... but I kinda like BET's Mary Jane with Gabrielle Union.  It depicts some authentic interplay among characters and it captures real-life situations.

When you've done press releases, pitched and worked hard to get exposure for your client, it is nice to have a guilty pleasure like Mary Jane!

Indulge without guilt!

And...I went

Last week, I talked about supporting a friend whose husband had died -- too soon.  Well, I went to the funeral and attended everything!  Had I had second thoughts about going, those were dispelled with her gratitude for me being there.  I was there...I was there...I was there.  It was so uplifting.

Drop everything and be supportive

Last week, the husband of one of the regional representatives who works under me died.  I really like her and admired her devotion, as chronicled on Facebook.  She was strong, devoted and the embodiment of the vows: "In sickness and in health...until death us do part."

The couple has two teenaged boys and the road ahead will be tough for her. Plus, she was let go from her job as a journalist so, with her husband's nearly-two-year-long illness, she's the embodiment of the Biblical figure, Job.

I galvanized the team to make a donation, since Money is what is needed as opposed to a plant or flowers.  I waited for news on when services would take place.  She lives in Birmingham, Alabama so it isn't like I can drive to the services in Chicago.  Wouldn't you know that it will be held on a day where I have several appointments and obligations.  At first, I thought about not going.  Then, I rethought how much an outpouring of support would uplift her.  So, I dropped everything -- cancelled all appointments -- to be there. To me, there is nothing more important than being there when a person truly needs uplift.  That's why I'm going...Nothing else matters.

Social Media Opus II - Be nice

Recently, and as the last blog underscores, I was savaged by folks in a social media thread.  Today, I'm seeking a realtor and put the word out on Facebook.  One of those who was particularly cruel inquired about it.  When I saw her name, I went back over the thread to confirm that she was who I thought she was.  I plan to tell her why she won't be considered.  Those intemperate, uncivil taunts, come back to haunt you.  So, even when on the other side of an argument, be civil, be nice, and be aware of what your behavior and intemperate, mean-spirited comments can cause....good or bad.  In this case, we wouldn't consider her at all for this opportunity.  I'm not being vindictive, but merely protecting us from those who are unkind and do not reflect our values.

Be strong on social media

Recently, I've led or participated in a few threads whose subjects are rather controversial.

I have been shocked at the taunts, lack of civility, meanness and cruelty that occurs when those on the thread think you're WRONG. There is no middle ground with some of these "haters."  But, you must be strong, maintain your position and if it gets too snarky, just leave it alone. It just isn't worth it.

I read somewhere of a guy who thinks folks who stay on Facebook all day trolling and commenting, are boring and don't have great lives.  When I was at the other end of that venom, I thought of his statement.

When I was under siege, I maintained my cool, stayed strong to my position and withstood the onslaught.

But, when I dip my toe in this territory again, I will think long and hard about whether it's worth it to engage.