From time to time, we get to work with individuals who leave unforgettable impressions on us.

Take a moment, think back and recall someone whom you would have liked to have spent more time with. It could be for many different reasons.

These individuals surface in our day-to-day lives, sometimes for a short period and sometimes for a long period of time.

We might not be totally conscious at the time how they are shaping our view of the world . . .  the realization of that impact might not come to us until years later.

Synchronistic event

Memories of a gentleman I worked with over 20 years ago somehow popped into my mind recently. I thought about his integrity, enthusiasm for business and the fun he had in life.

I had worked with him for over 15 years and knew him well.

At one point he was my manager, until the time came when we switched roles and I became his manager.

He did a great job as a manager;  he simply wanted to go back and do what he enjoyed most. I admired him for that life decision that confirmed he knew himself well.

Literally the day after I thought of him, I was on a plane reading our local newspaper. While reading the obituaries I was shocked to read this man whom I had admired had just passed away.

I was aware he had been ill in the past, but didn’t know the cancer had returned.

Memorial service was like a reunion

Attending his memorial service was like taking a step back in time.

I had the opportunity to reacquaint with people I had not seen for a number of years.

We had a lot of fun “back in the day” and it was great to relive some of those memories.

Time does pass by so quickly; we can move from one career to another and become disconnected from a large group of people who were central in our lives.

Lesson learned; get-together in the works

Although these special people might come and go from our lives, they leave an impression upon us that becomes woven into the fabric of our being.

I regret that it took the death of someone I admire to cause me to shift my priorities. A couple of us have decided to plan a get-together with the old crew in the near future.

Is there any important person from your past who has popped into your mind lately?

Maybe there’s a reason they’ve come to mind.