Begging or Requesting with Humility

 Recently I responded to a friend who had recommended me to an agency that was seeking a PR firm.

While I'm not inclined to get back in the work mode, as I consider myself retired. But I always respond when a friend makes the recommendation.

That's just courteous.

So, I responded and went to the agency.

They gave a compelling narrative on the agency and it was impressive. They uplift youth and provide programs that benefit them. I nodded as I was impressed.  At the same time,   I was waiting for them to ask about my taking them on as a client.

Then they dropped the ball.

They're looking for a volunteer PR firm as they don't have the $.

That may me think this was a beg and not a solicitation for me to be their PAID agency.

So, I told them I would think about it.

And I have.

The agency is doing admirable acts that benefit young people .  

So, I offered to work for the client -- voluntarily -- for three months. But I told them, they should use the time to find someone they would pay year round.

I feel this should satisfy them and get them time to review their budget and make adjustments to hire someone or contact a firm.

I feel good about the solution.

Feeling sad

 March 31, 2025

After over 75 years, my sister and I sold the family house.

It is where our parents raised us...punished us and watched us turn into mature, achieving women.

Mom's been dead 21 years and Dad's been gone 14 years.

Even after he died, we couldn't let the house go. 

The memories of our parents and the aura of love enveloped us.  But with time, the pull of the memories began to wane. So, we decided to sell it although the house will always be in our hearts.

We contracted an experienced realtor to handle the sale.

With a few touches, the realtor turned the house into something out of House Beautiful.  And within three days, we had three prospects.

The one who we decided on increased the price by 10% to heighten his chances of being the owner -- especially since he had good credit.

Within two weeks, all of the particulars were finalized and the house was sold.

I felt empty at first and still feel it a bit.  I'll pass the house surreptitiously but may have a little sadness.

But all of this is in the past and it's time to move forward and move on.

Remembering when...

Da Bulls!

I remember how sensational they were with Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Craig Hodges and even crazy Dennis Rodman.

Those were the days!

As I look at sports coverage and the winning LeBron and Steph Curry and so many more, I yearn for the days when the Bulls were WINNING!

Those days are gone....LONG GONE!

Never give up

Of course, I love tennis. And, the first slam of the year is the Australian Open. I was glued to the tube.  To cap off the excitement: There was a rare finalist:  Madison Keys.

Madison has been on the tour for nearly 15 years.  She's steady but has never won a slam. She came close -- losing to Sloane Stephens in a lopsided score seven years ago.

But providence was on her side this year.

She was in great form --undaunted by her opponents' higher ranking.

And she went for it.

She was ranked in the '20s but took down three higher-ranked players including the #2.  That was a match she won by a hair.  BUT SHE WON!

So, in the final, her opponent was the #1 player.  She was not supposed to win.

Through focus, determination, on-the-court insight, superior playing and devotion to the plan -- MADISON KEYS WON!

She turns 30 in a few weeks. She could have retired as she reached 30.  But she was there to win.

And she did.

She refused to give up.   

So....it's 2025

Every new year is cause for reflection and ruminating.

I am inching toward 80 and I think about all I've done and the small amount of time I have left.

Yes.  I have regrets. 

Yes. I'm proud of some moments in my life -- meaningful and daunting and glorious. 

So, here we are at 2025 and another whole new year ahead of us.

I have no idea what's in store.  But I'll continue to be me and do me.

I'll continue to learn, explore, cogitate, ruminate and....

Resolve to be better in 2025.