Things I’ve learned from Don…
You don’t have to personally know a person, for them to feel like a good friend. How much more sadness there must be for those in Don’s inner circle right now.
A great man is one who not only demonstrates excellence in his career, but excels also in balancing career with being a great husband, father and friend.
Offering your time and respect to those who may not be able to offer anything in return sincerely demonstrates humility and generosity.
It’s good to poke fun at yourself now and then. Those laughing with you are also becoming fans at the same time.
Being a private person doesn’t mean not giving others a peek into your life now and again. Don was always larger than life but became human through his interviews and videos.
Taking time to thank those who have influenced your journey is something to do sooner rather than later. Life is short, indeed.
If you have something to add, please share it in the comments section below. Meanwhile, enjoy a fun video featuring Don’s family.
Joe,
Thanks for sharing these very good thoughts with us.
Be well,
Bob
Joe:
That’s some really terrific and applicable insight.
Thanks for taking the time to put that together.
Best always,
- Peter
Thank you Bob and Peter for stopping by.
Joe,
Wonderful thoughts. And thanks for the link, I hadn’t seen that video before.
Brian
Thank you Brian.
Thanks for writing this Joe. I met Don on April 20th, 2006 at the Museum of the Moving Image in Queens. I attended Joan Baker’s event and he was on the panel. I intentionally brought a camera with me, not so that I can “show off” my picture with “The Don,” but rather to capture some of his energy and bring it back to my studio so that I can have a daily reminder of a “family man” in the business. Your point about “balancing career with being a great husband, father and friend” is something that I strive to find and have begun to practice every single day. I waited until the end and then I just got the nerve to walk up on stage and approach him. His DAUGHTER took our picture; not a colleague, a pr person, a friend… his DAUGHTER. That will always stay with me. Yesterday I brought my daughter into the “booth” (she’s 3), while I recorded an audition and she was THRILLED! Until then, Daddy’s studio was always just “his work… don’t touch.” But this morning, before heading off to school, she asked, “Can we record, Daddy?” RIP DON. and THANKS!
Anthony,
Priceless… Thank you for that story.
There really are some things money can’t buy. Don knew this.
Joe
Well said Joe. Thanks for the great post. Rest in peace, Don.
Thanks Ben.