The Pens

ML wanted to do a tribute for our departing leader.  Taking him out to lunch or giving him a card wouldn’t do justice to the impact that the man had had on all of our lives.  For many, he was the only boss they had ever known, this being their first job out of college.  He represented someone that was willing to take a chance on them and help them get their start in the world.  So, the tribute had to equal the feelings and emotions for the man.

He came to me with an idea of giving KE a pen.  To be honest, I was confused, as this seemed like an odd tribute.  But then he explained that it was like the scene from A Beautiful Mind, where all of the professors placed a pen on the table in front of John Nash.  The gesture was a sign of respect that acknowledged the contribution and impact that the man had had on their field…and on their lives.  And suddenly it was the perfect idea.  I suggested that we also write a note, a personal memory of KE, and attach it to the pen, which ML loved.

We decided to get our entire team involved and to do it after our on-site conference, when the entire team would be in town and at the office.  I was overwhelmed by the response.  Everyone brought a pen, each unique to the bearer’s personality.  The notes ranged from a simple Post-It note to a full-blown card.  One by one, we each made our way to KE’s desk and placed the pen in front of him.  Many also gave him a handshake or a hug, as he was much more than a boss…he was a friend.  At first, he was confused; but slowly, slowly he understood that this was an acknowledgment of his time with us.  We were honoring him.

Some people get a plaque or a watch.  KE got pens.  And I think he’ll cherish them much more than the other two.  Each pen, each note, was more personal than a plaque or watch.  It was a fitting tribute, and he got choked up as he tried to express how much it all meant to him.  Even though the Lord has other plans for KE, he will still miss his team.  He will still miss that which he spent the last six years of his life building and shaping.  He will still miss his interactions with us and how he helped us become wiser, more mature adults.

We wish you well, KE.  Godspeed, and know that you are missed.