The little guy makes a big impression

I find myself at a loss for words. I make no claim to being the purveyor of profound insights. In fact, I am constantly astonished by how little I really know. The awareness of that fact comes with time and experience. The certainty of youth soon gives way to a sometimes confused pondering of various perspectives. Perhaps I can best summarize with the title of a piece I wrote, "The More I Learn, The Less I Know." But sometimes you are struck by words and actions that resonate with such emotion that for at least a moment, a truth becomes clear.

A few months ago I wrote a column that was "a Tribute to the little guy." A simple tribute to good people making excellent contributions in the broadcasting/advertising/marketing industries for whom no Hall of Fame, lavish lunches or spectacular sendoffs wait in store.

I wrote of my respect for those facing mid-life crises in the form of layoffs.

I'll say it again. These people are my heroes. I concluded with the following:

"In the end, I will remember those who gave it their all, acting with humanity, and always keeping their priorities straight. After all, a great cost per point, a number one in the ratings, or one's ability to exceed sales quotas aren't really worth much as an epitaph. I know that, to some, this sentiment may seem quaint or even humorous. We'll probably never share the same values.

The ones I respect are all those that face adversity with dignity. That fight on for their families while maintaining the respect of their friends. I may not be able to afford a gala, but you'll always be welcome at my place for dinner."

I thank both the RTNDA and Dick Smythe for reprinting the piece.

I have to say that when I wrote those words, it never occurred to me that I was doing anything more than spitting into the wind. With age, we can also become jaded and a bit cynical. Then a series of responses began to come in. Your notes resonated with me in a way that my simple words can't begin to express. Most of all, it left me with the sense that there are some very special people out there with their hearts and values in the right place. The responses came from people in senior and junior positions. From those who have faced difficult circumstances and those who have good luck (so far).

Many just wrote to express their agreement with the sentiment:

"There are a great many of us who share your sentiment and don't find it quaint or humorous. On behalf of all the little guys...."

"I could not agree with you more. We must remember if it wasn't for the people in the trenches most companies would not be where they are today."

"I didn't want to vent as I am one of those left behind. I just wanted to thank you for recognizing the forgotten ones. It's people like you that in the long run make the difference."

One person maintained their sense of humour:

"Been there, done that, got the t-shirt (and the scars). As it has been some years since I found myself in that situation, it's still a tender memory, tender as in "that still hurts" as opposed to a fond thought. Granted, we all rise above adversity, and in many cases, good things come from a major paradigm shift - but it still doesn't change the emotional impact, which you so eloquently captured in your article."

One person offered a succinct response to the rash of layoffs:

"I'm keeping my head down, flying below the radar, and not making any waves, hoping to make it to retirement without getting gassed. Hell of a way to end a career."

Another looks back:

"My memories of 30 years in radio is full of names of talented people who haven't survived and have moved on to other things. Too bad. Perhaps your reminder of the humanity of our business will remind some manager/owner somewhere to recall that this is a 'people' business."

Many of the responses were very personal:

"I am personally acquainted with half a dozen or more of those people, and married to one. I too am in the broadcast industry, but so far have escaped the dragon's teeth....Kudos to you for pointing out the injustice, and for patting the little guys on the back. It's not what they really want, but a little recognition of their plight is like salve on an open wound. I hope someone in a leather chair is listening, and sees a reflection of themselves in your message. Thank you."

Some reflected on those talented middle aged people facing difficult circumstances:

"...the unsung heroes of our business who are put out to pasture in their 40's and 50's... If people in the business think Grey Power was a powerful force just wait till the boomers start flexing their collective might..."

One of the most moving notes came from a daughter: "my father sent me a copy of your piece on job loss. He just lost his job after working for the company for 24 years. He now finds himself being one of the middle management with no where to go. He sent me a copy of what you wrote because it really touched him. Recently I attended a big send off for someone in my company, and I spent a large part of the evening thinking how much my father deserved one. Instead he was laid off over the phone.

It makes me feel wonderful to know that there are still decent people in the business world. After how my father has been treated, I've been left with very little hope. Thank you for what you've written, I know you've made my father feel much better about what has happened to him and hopefully your words will encourage others to treat laid off people with more respect."

While I don't know the gentleman referred to, he must be very special indeed to have raised such a daughter. In my heart, people like her father will always be the true heroes. I suppose we are all best judged by those whose lives we have truly touched.

Your words, stories and sentiments are more articulate than I could ever hope to be. I want to express my profound thanks for showing me that, despite days when it seems like the opposite, there are some very fine people out there sharing values that make us all a little bit stronger. I may not know much, but that is one truth I won't forget.

more articulate than I could ever hope to be. I want to express my profound thanks for showing me that, despite days when it seems like the opposite, there are some very fine people out there sharing values that make us all a little bit stronger. I may not know much, but that is one truth I won't forget.