Dear Customers and Friends,
Would you rather have a thousand Facebook friends or just a couple of close buddies?
For me, I would always choose that one best friend whom you can trust and count on through thick and thin. Apart from my wife Lynn, I have very few “best friends,” but I feel especially blessed with the special brothers in my life.
One of my best friends ever also happened to be one of my best customers early in my career. That’s a rare combination – and it helped teach me the value of doing business today in relationships that can be both personal and professional without sacrificing integrity.
His name was Steve Stewart, and sadly, he is no longer alive, the victim of cancer that took his life way too early. Our friendship ran so deep that he could claim to know me better than I did.
Once, he called to inform me that he had signed me up for a Rotary charity golf tournament as a member of his four-man team. I immediately turned him down, explaining I had never picked up a golf club and had zero interest in playing the sport.
“Oh yes you do, Greg. You will love it,” Steve replied. “So, I expect to see you show up early for a few practice swings before the tournament gets started.”
Then came the real hook from my biggest customer at the time: “And if you don’t show up, I’m throwing away your phone number.”
Of course, he was kidding – but he got my attention. I showed up and played terribly except for one lucky swing of an eight iron that landed my ball a few inches from the pin. After that, I was hooked for life, and I can hardly take a golf swing today without thinking about the friend who introduced me to what has become a lifetime passion.
I believe God smiles on friendships like mine. He is a relational God and wants us to be in close companionship by sharing the spirit of His love with others.
In Proverbs, King Solomon of Israel talks a lot about the value of good friendships that are defined by loyalty and support. He also advised choosing friends wisely because they can influence your character. That cuts both ways, so we should strive to be a good role model for our friends, too.
Close friends, especially those who accept you despite your flaws, are a rare breed. Cherish them, and always remind them of just how special they are in your life.
Blessed to be a Blessing,
Greg Syfan
President, Syfan Logistics
“A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”
Proverbs 18:24