Jim’s Legacy: A Story of Friendship and Sacrifice

 Jim

I knew Jim for ten years, he called me Mom and I called him son.  Jim worked for me over that time. He was so much more than an employee. Jim was tall, very tall 6’7”, he had a beautiful mind.  He was a bit awkward and clumsy which probably came from his height.  Jim was uniquely different. So smart that it put him at a disadvantage socially. But loyal, beyond loyal. Dedicated to his craft and a wonderful caring human being.

He lost his mom at an early age, he had a very close relationship with his brother.  Jim was married and eventually a father to three, two being twins. Jim was a workaholic, never a partying man.  He could work circles around all and cared more about the company than the owners.

Jim had fierce loyal friends, a tight knit group that would do anything for Jim. Because Jim would do anything for them.  He had a funny side. It was a little hard to pierce through his tough exterior to get to that humor. But when you did, it was a joy to see.

Jim and his brother worked for me.  We actually lost his brother after a long hard-working weekend. He was a young-single father to a little girl.  He had some health complications due to an undisclosed condition. Had he disclosed, I would have never let him work so hard. Like Jim he was one of those overly dedicated, workaholic employees that unfortunately put his life on the line. I gave a eulogy at his funeral by Jim’s request.

I know their mother is in Heaven. I would just like her to know she raised some wonderful boys. I had the distinct pleasure of getting to know and love them.

Jim did bring frustration from time to time. His intelligence and his over all presence made him a force to be reckoned with. He felt he knew what was best and sometimes broke the rules or violated policies to get his way. He wasn’t wrong, he was just trying to do what was best for the team as a whole. But there are times when you do just have to follow the rules. It was always with a heavy heart when I had to discipline Jim for crossing the line.

If you ever come across someone who is socially awkward, remember there may be a beautiful soul behind that inexplicable behavior. I ask you to keep this in mind. Show love and kindness to pull the good out of others. Patience and time are what these individuals need.