I caught up on all of the thoughtful birthday messages this morning. It’s always humbling.
I went to our Burlington office this morning to work for a bit before the celebration of a 35 year milestone for a coworker. It was officially the first time since we were sent home three years ago that I have worked at one of our offices. It’s going to take some getting use to going in once in a while, but it was a perfect day to venture off to find the humans.
Although I don’t know this employee all that well, he has always been an easy guy to talk to when I’ve run into him at a meeting or event over the years.
The boardroom was quite packed and there were many on the Google Meets call from out of town. His manager and a few people took turns telling some stories about how their coworker and friend has touched and inspired them over the years.
For some reason, I felt compelled to speak. I am not sure why I do this to myself as my heart was beating out of my chest even at the thought of it, but there I was with my hand up in the air anyway.
I struggled through it. I have always had trouble with not getting emotional when I talk about something I am passionate about, and this moment was no different. It’s embarrassing actually.
I was touched hearing the stories though. We haven’t always been able to say goodbye to coworkers to celebrate these milestones and for me, these moments are a great reflection of how we want our coworkers to think of us should we ever be blessed with such a work milestone.
How do you want to be remembered?