LEGGO THE EGO

Saturday morning started with a long hot shower, some fresh coffee, and a sundress -- then off to the hair dresser.  It was a big day for our family as we prepared to attend an awards gala honoring my father.  The day was reminiscent of preparing for prom where your whole day is dedicated to feeling refreshed and pretty in time for the 'Big Event'.  As the five o'clock hour came around we were all ready to go wearing our floor length gowns, tuxedos, and enough hairspray to be considered a fire hazard.  The event venue was stunning.  Chandeliers, floral arrangements, a full theatrical stage, and plenty of local 'VIP's' in attendance.  I wandered the room with my Pinot Grigio in hand and anxiously awaited for the ceremony to begin and highlight the people associated with my Alma Mater that were making a true impact on our world.

The event began by presenting The Young Alumni award to an extremely impressive entrepreneur with a lightning bolt of energy attached to him.  The following Service Awards were inspiring and humbling with their heartfelt speeches.  But what really captivated my attention this particular evening was the common thread found in the two speeches made by the Grand Honorees:  Humility & Gratitude.  The founder of Vizio got up to make his speech and I was anticipating a powerhouse story of hard work and sacrifice, but instead he delivered a speech centered around the encouragement received by loved ones and his dedication towards overcoming his failures in order to carry on with his career.  It was charming, humble, and full of admiration for his wife of mother. 

The concluding speech for the evening was made by the wife of the current CEO of Trader Joes who could not attend the event as he was home ill from his chemotherapy treatments necessary for battling Leukemia.  She eloquently presented the speech that her husband had written and, again, it was filled with humility and gratitude towards loved ones. 

She captivated the entire audience of 1,500 people for the duration of her 15 minute presentation and she undoubtedly deserved the standing ovation.  Her speech opened by acknowledging each family member in attendance and mentioning a thoughtful detail about their accomplishments.  She then talked about the 32 year marriage that she and Dan have enjoyed together and pictures flashed of the many family occasions they celebrated.    Only for a few minutes did she talk about his time with Trader Joes and what this company meant to them. 

The financial success achieved by each of these men, as indicated by their speeches, was only a small piece of what defined their lives and character.  They emphasized family, unconditional love and support, and gratitude for the opportunity to make a difference.  In a world emphasizing the ever powerful E-G-O, they were a breath of fresh air and a poignant reminder to 'Leggo the Ego'.