The Three Lessons I Learned From Losing My Most Loyal Employee

A couple of weeks ago, I posted this tribute to Kent – my friend, 20+ year employee, and confidant:

Though we can never escape pain, we can always change our perspective. I know Kent would have wanted me to learn from it, write about it, and, of course, have him edit it. So here are three lessons I’ve learned from losing my most loyal employee:

1. Take Time to Mourn and Reflect
   What could I have done better? What were my last words to Kent? Were they “Good Job”, “Thank you for all you do?”, “How are your Grandkids?”. I hope so, but I’m not certain. I’ve been contemplating this for the last few weeks since his death. I hope my last words were kind, thoughtful and encouraging. It got me thinking of the Aristotle quote: “Be Kind for Everyone is Fighting a Great Battle.”
2. What Makes Someone Life Worth Living?
   I’m grateful I took the time over the years to know Kent as a person, a father, and a friend. But, I haven’t always taken this time with others. For that, I’m disappointed in myself and, at times, even ashamed. What I do know is we can’t possibly affect someone’s outer world if we don’t take time to understand their inner world.
3. Remember the Back Up Singers
   Kent didn’t need to be the front man, just like the back up singers in the documentary “20 Feet from Stardom.” Darlene Love, Judith Hill, Merry Clayton, and many others who sang backup for the Rolling Stones didn’t need to take center stage. Said Lisa Fischer, “I reject the notion that the job you excel at is not enough to aspire to, that there has to be something more. I love supporting other artists.” She added, “Some People will do anything to be famous. I just want to sing.”

Kent, thank you for your song, your loyalty, and your humility.

Until we meet again, good friend….

If you would like to attend Kent’s Celebration of Life on May 16, please send an email to corporate@sharilevitin.com and we will send you the details.