"Hello, is Martin in?"
"No, I am sorry, he is in court all day. He'll be in tomorrow, but is booked pretty solid. Would you like to leave a message?"
"Just tell him I called and that we need to set up a time to meet when his calendar lightens up."
"I'll tell him. Thank you for calling."
Martin is a friend and a client. He's always very busy: taking care of his clients, running his business, running to committee meetings, running in and out of the gym. Occasionally we see each other at the gym, but neither of us likes to talk business during "our" time. Besides, he's usually running out when I get in. His busyness frustrates me; I think he's not focused enough on his financial life.
Last night, I went to pay a condolence call for a friend whose mother recently passed away. The Jewish word for this time of mourning is "shiva". Friends and family come together in support of each other and religious services are performed. To my surprise, in walked Martin. I didn't know that the bereaved was a mutual friend. I also did not know that Martin was there to lead the service. His role was to lead the mourners in readings and prayer and bring the community together at this sad time.
I was amazed at Martin's facility and grace as he read, chanted and brought everyone together. It was a role I hadn't witnessed him undertake before. He was a natural. After the service concluded, I watched as he spoke with the bereaved and others who gather in support. The experience was comforting and healing for those who participated.
I learned something about Martin, last night. Giving of his time to help others is integral to who he is. It's how he defines himself...and while Martin wishes to live a financially comfortable life, it's not all about the money. His physical health, family, clients and his community are essential components of living a full and rich life.
I am sure that the next time I call his office, unable to get him to arrange a time to talk about his future, I will take comfort in knowing that right now, he's living his dreams. But I still think he needs to devote more time to his financial life!