Ali Lassen, 1926-1999
September 18 is a special day, it’s our Leads Club Founder’s birthday. More importantly to me, it’s my Mother’s birthday. 73-years-old, seems too young to pass in these days of advanced medicine. She fought a valiant fight with Breast Cancer, availing herself to all modalities of Western and Eastern medicine. Unfortunately, right at the 5-year mark to the month of diagnosis, the big C came back and 5 months later she passed on my brother’s birthday May 17th.
This year marks 20 years since she passed, it’s hard to believe. As I remember her, I think of her most noteworthy traits, and they are many. She was a feminist way before it was a thing. She was a dedicated mother to my 4 siblings and me. She supported our father in his law practice and political endeavors, never missing a step. She was Green and holistic before it was cool and raised us to eat clean and healthy. Thank you, Mom! Before I was born, she graduated from college with a Masters degree and enlisted in the Navy as a Wave, teaching pilot’s how to jump out of airplanes during WW II.
For the past few weeks I’ve been seeing the date on the calendar and anticipating a rush of emotion. Today is that day. As I’ve learned, grief is a journey, and how amazing is that as one of Ali’s favorite sayings is: “Success is a Journey, not a Destination”. I did not have an emotional rush this year, but what I am thinking about is how amazing she was.
If you asked me to select one thing that I remember, it is one of the ways she presented herself in business. Ali Lassen always saw the potential in you. She assumed and expected that you can do anything you set your mind to accomplish as long as you are professional, prepared and earnest.
Ali has taught me many things over the years but this one I believe has been one of her best traits that I have aspired to emulate.
In honor of Ali, please be open to the potential of people you meet. Assume the best. Offer to Mentor.
I won’t get preachy here, so I will close with my heartfelt wish that you emulate Ali Lassen and find someone with potential and mentor them to success. It is such a win- win proposition, I promise you, you will gain so much more than you give.
If you have a moment, please share your story of mentoring a fellow business person.
Warmly,
Lisa