As we end the 33rd year of Reflections and 13 years on internet.
Point to Ponder: History is often the tale of small moments—chance encounters or casual decisions or sheer coincidence—that seem of little consequence at the time, but somehow fuse with other small moments to produce something momentous, the proverbial flapping of a butterfly’s wings that triggers a hurricane.-Scott Anderson
Story Line: My wife was very excited to have a laptop of her dream from a famous brand. But to her disappointment it wasn’t starting properly. So we went to the store of the computer manufacturer. The young man who was assigned to address our need was very courteous and after listening to her experience, gladly decided to replace with the new one. While the new laptop was being set up, he and I engaged in a long conversation about industry, technology and life experiences. He mentioned that he and his friend were in the process of setting up a high tech start up.
As he handed us the new computer, he asked if we would like to meet his partner and also if we can meet periodically. What followed was meetings over many weekends talking about their ideas, business opportunities and my experiences.
After few months, we met another founding partner and also a new graduate in his early 20s who had decided to join them instead of going with abundance of jobs in the established companies. We found all four to be incredibly resourceful, brilliant technical minds, very business savvy and well read about various subjects about world and life. With very few resources they were able to accomplish things that would take millions of dollars and many people in larger organizations. Their ability to maintain and leverage relationships from high school and college days with fellow students and professors was admirable. Their enthusiasm, energy and the view of the world radiated in the air. After every encounter with them we left more energized.
Reflection: In January 2017, about half way in our association, I was at the same store for upgrading my phone. Just when the new phone was set up and turned on, the very first email that flashed on my screen was:
“I want to start by saying …………… Over the years we have all learned to grow and continue to tackle on the challenges that are faced daily; but having you be part of our start up adventure/journey by sharing your wisdom, knowledge, and support has truly been motivational and a true blessing that words can not express. We love your famous quote: 'Quality is never having to say sorry to your customers' This will be part of our company motto……..Therefore, as our company gradually matures and approaches the next phase, it would be an honor for us to formally invite you to be an advisory board member for ……….. Technologies, Inc.”
To be honest, it is I who is more honored to be a member of the group of people who really knows who they are and doing things that are in harmony with their purpose. Very few times in life one comes across an opportunity to know and work with such people. And it all happened due to a chance encounter.