A Guy Named Tom

Tom passed away last week.  Cancer.

He worked for one of my clients and by all accounts was a genuine good guy.  Talented, passionate and driven.  People told me stories of Tom’s last few weeks with the company and I was moved by the integrity and grit of the man. 

As Tom’s illness spread he chose to step away from his role.  He felt he could no longer deliver to his own high standards.  On one of Tom’s last days with the company he sent a note to his colleagues, thanking them for all they had done to enrich his life.  People had told me of Tom’s note, but I had not seen it until this morning.

Tom wrote with humor, gratitude and emotion.  He shared stories of his adventures and the things he learned along the way.  Tom loved the culture that had been created by his employer and he was saddened when he had to step away.  This sits in such contrast to the employer bashing that we hear so often.  I have done it so won’t be throwing any stones.

I never met Tom, but I have learned a lot from him.  His 500 word note has challenged my own attitudes and caused me to ask some hard questions of myself.  I will just say I don’t like all of the answers.

I am sorry, but I can’t share Tom’s note, it wouldn’t be right.

SDG