Ron Hittle inspired me with one sentence
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"To touch the soul of another human being is to walk on holy ground." - Stephen R. Covey, via QuotesBlogI met Ron Hittle about 3-1/2 years ago at a career workshop at Sinclair Community College in Dayton, Ohio. I remember that it was an encouraging and inspiring time for me, since I was really struggling for direction in my career. The encounter and events since then have showed me how powerful connecting with one person can positively affect another.
That year I also met a recruiter in the Dayton area, and we've exchanged e-mails and phone conversations over the past three years or so, having become part of each other's professional network.
She mentioned early on that I must have met Ron Hittle.
"How did you know that?" I asked.Imitation, it's been said, is the sincerest form of flattery. This recruiter and I at different times had adopted Ron's way of closing a message as our own.
"From then ending of your voicemail message," she replied. "I do that, too."
It's a little bittersweet that I share all of this, because a few moments ago, she called me to say that Ron Hittle passed away this weekend. He'd retired some time ago and had been dealing with some health issues, but it still came suddenly. My thoughts and prayers go up to the family, as well as those who knew Ron well. He will surely be missed.
As I mentioned, I didn't know Ron that well, but he left a lasting impression on me just from one statement from his voicemail message, because it points to my own ability to do something about my life versus letting something happen.
If you've received an email from me or have heard me sign off on my mostly music podcast, you probably already know what I'm about to say.
Most people I know usually end a conversation by saying, "Have a great day!"
Ron Hittle would say, "Make it a great day!"
Thanks, Ron. I think I will.
Related tags: getthatjob get+that+job job+hunt job+search career+advice networking professional+development daniel+johnson+jr ron+hittle sinclair+community+college
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2 comments:
Daniel,
Thanks for the great note about my father. Over the past few days I have met many people who shared similar stories about their interaction with him. Although it is hard now coping with the loss, is is very encouraging to know that his memory will be kept alive in the hundreds of people like you that he inspired and mentored.
Make it a great day!
Steve
I too, knew Ron. It has been 34 years since I last broke bread with him. We were both account executives with Top Value in Kettering. I had lost my son in an accident 2 years prior and out side of my family, Ron was about the only person I felt comfortable taking to. He had a great sense of humor and his tripping on purpose when entering a room always brought a laugh. I am deeply saddened by his passing and my prayers go out to his family.
Bob
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