You can find inspiration anywhere. Recently I went to my hometown of Mercer Island, Washington to celebrate the life of a dear friend, James Cassan. James along with his wife Doris (who were married for 62 years) were the parents of classmates of mine and lived in my neighborhood. In fact, when James drove by my house on his way home from work, he would honk his horn, and when I heard it, I would run outside to hear his latest motivational quote. I was 13 years old and looking back, he was my first ‘motivational’ influence besides my parents. During the beautiful service, his legacy was illuminated through heartfelt eulogies that revealed the true breadth of his generosity. Listening to everyone, two things really inspired me. First, I had no clue just how incredibly generous James was. The measure of a person’s generosity is often hidden in their silent contributions to the world. Although I was aware of his entrepreneurial success with Dollar Rent-A-Car and his real estate ventures, (including The Mercer apartments on the island) the eulogies brought to light the depth of his altruism. From opening his home to international students to aiding the homeless with Operation Night Watch and providing wheelchairs to those in need, James embodied the very essence of giving without expectation of recognition.
Hearing all these people talk about his philanthropic activities that I wasn’t aware of, made me want to really get to know the people around me, to learn about and honor the unseen ways they’re changing the world.
Secondly, I am inspired to do more. If James could be so supportive of so many different causes, without the need to be in the spotlight, it proves that I can do more.
Thank you, James, for being a great Usher, shining your generous light for others to live their best life.
Striving to be a better Usher,
Marilyn
