A Testament to Success

Steve McManis sent me his remembrance of Jim that he read at the memorial service:

Good Morning,

I stand before you today humbled and honored to share a few remembrances of my dear friend Jim Ehrlich.

My relationship with Jim spans some 20 or so years, and began just a little north of here in Concord at the home offices of Chubb LifeAmerica. Though we didn’t know it then, the journey we would take together would cross many thousands of air miles, entail countless hours of conversation and debate, create valuable programs, opportunities and support systems for a host of people we sought to assist, and ultimately, form a bond and a friendship between us that we bet would last a lifetime…and it seems we won that bet, albeit, way too soon.

Jim and I had what I would call a complimentary blend of skills; I being a bit more “sales and marketing” focused and Jim a bit more “analytical and technical” by nature. As you can imagine, this blend only yielded greater debate at times, but seemed to teach us a very valuable lesson early in our careers. You do need a lot of diverse skills…and some luck… to succeed.

Jim approached his work with a tenacity second to none I have witnessed. It was not uncommon in his early days of building his career, to work well into the late night and still be one of the first at his desk the next morning, right back at it. Though the eyes may have been a bit heavy, the spirit was strong and the determination was prevalent.

Throughout the years, our career paths evolved and took us in similar, but different geographic directions. We would see each other at destinations around the country, and interact with many of the same groups, but at different times. Some consistent comments always seemed to surface from folks I would see that had recently seen Jim, but didn’t know him too well, those being something to the tune of: How do you know if he’s upset, he’s always smiling? Does he really enjoy playing Devil’s advocate as much as it appears? (And one of my favorites) What does he do for fun…his own budget?

Truth be known, Jim made a fantastic impression with most everyone, and left an indelible mark on the business and personal lives of so many people throughout the entire country. He often commented to me that he felt lucky to do what he did and had the terrific opportunity to meet so many diverse and interesting people along the way. As you may have read some of the numerous postings on the blog from folks who knew Jim through a more professional relationship, the message always centered on his intelligence, compassion, assistance, camaraderie, and of course, good humor. The benefits of Jim’s guidance, creativity and inspiration to achieve success has manifested itself hundreds of times over, and will continue to grow and flourish in so many people that will do him proud, day in and day out, for decades to come. His goals and values will be represented by their actions, for he helped shaped their direction and thought process.

If you’re sensing a consistent theme in my message, you can clearly understand that Jim Ehrlich made a significant impact on those with whom he worked. He challenged you and tried to make you think and believe in what you were doing…not just do it for the sake of getting it done. He would rather do the “Right Thing” than the “Popular Thing”, and while that was not always an easy place to be, his determination in the pursuit of what was honest and sincere allowed for no other action.

I think overall, Jim operated with a simple motto in business and carried that same motto even more so in life…and that was -- “While authority can be given, respect can only be earned.” I think that is one of the very reasons he constantly sought to develop and expand his own personal knowledge. I think it is a core motive why he undertook the challenge of creating his own business; and, likewise, knowing when it was time to change courses and move forward from that plan. I think it is why he truly seemed content these last couple of years with his professional place and achievements…but yet why he also yearned to contribute more each and every day. I think it is why comments from co-workers indicate they are a better person for having worked with and known him. I think that’s why so many would call him a “True Professional”. And, I think it is why there was always a smile on his face when he was doing what he did.

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On a more personal note, Jim and I shared many special times…both happy and sad over the years. He was one of the few people in my world that I looked forward to verbally sparring with, for I knew the motivation of our debate was healthy, and that we would have many laughs in the process of coming away with a keener sense of the issue. I was always intrigued by those times when he would stop, mid-sentence, and say “I don’t know…” but before I could say anything, he would start up…“but what if….” and go on from there.

He was always a trusted confidante, and I will miss the insight we shared on so many fronts. Jim was a catalyst in bringing people together, and I know in my heart that many of the casual relationships he might have innocently ignited will carry on with meaning and depth because of his involvement.

One of our last conversations together at hospice was intended to focus primarily on some financial concerns and logistics, but the conversation quickly evolved to reminiscing about so many great times shared over the years. We talked about what the world looks like today compared to a couple of decades ago, and how we emerged into the business community and learned so much, so fast, and how none of the basics we were brought up on seemed to fit anymore. It was a conversation I’m sure two colleagues and friends from many generations before us have had, time and time again; but to me, I will always remember it was with my very special friend Jim. “Oh, Stevo, it’s been too short…Where did the time go?” he asked…as that inquisitive look came across his face and he gazed into the room…and before I could respond, he proceeded to begin telling me…and I couldn’t get enough of all he had to say.

The morning Jim died, I read a reflection passage for the second Sunday in Advent. It described the term “angel” and talked about what angels do. The closing line in the reflection was this: “Beside each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd.” I rejoice today in the fact that my friend will continue to be there as my angel, and as an angel for so many he encountered while here.

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In closing, when I think of Jim…my colleague, my wine and cigar pal, my business confidante, and my very dear friend, there will always be one word that surfaces and clearly defines his multitude of accomplishments in the many aspects of his short, but fulfilling, life…and that word is SUCCESS. I believe this poem from Ralph Waldo Emerson says it all…

To laugh often and much,
To win the respect of intelligent people and affection of children;
To earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends;
To appreciate beauty, to find the best in others;
To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition;
To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.
This is to have succeeded.

May each of us, in our own way, strive to emulate Jim’s testament to SUCCESS.