Thanks Ray

During the energy crisis of the 80's, our manufacturing company had our maintenance person put together a program of how to save energy and thus help save money. Ray had many suggestions, but one in particular stuck with me. Ray suggested we simply learn to turn off the water while shaving and brushing our teeth. I've long forgotten the average savings figures Ray told us, and I'm sure the savings were modest at best. But I'm also sure the waste of water (and heat for the shaving water) were pure wastes, money down the drain, and a waste that could be cured without any inconvenience if we would only remember to do it.

We've been away for several days visiting the New Jersey shore. I came home and wrote this post because I thought about Ray one morning at the hotel. Yes I was shaving. And brushing my teeth. And yes, I did turn off the water. And I remembered Ray and his energy saving meeting. How it was probably a chore for him to put together the presentation. How he may have been nervous giving it. How perhaps he may have wondered if it was really worth it.

Well thanks Ray. For me it was. I've used your tip for many, many years. And I've told others about it too. And perhaps today through this blog a few more faucets will be turned off when the water is simply being wasted down the drain.

Sometimes the little things we do have far reaching and long term impacts. Because of them we may occasionally receive great reward and profound recognition. More likely however the resulting impact will go unseen and unnoticed by the originator. But even though the originators like Ray may never know the result of their efforts, the change of behavior that others make and the fond memories of the originator are real.

About me: Before becoming a full time educator, my career experiences included being vice president of a consulting firm, vice president - finance of a publishing company, vice president - sales support services for a manufacturing company and vice president - operations for a distribution company. As a full time educator working principally in Rhode Island (RI), Connecticut (CT) and Massachusetts (MA). I am pleased to share my experiences and business philosophies with managers at all levels.

Copyright © 2009 Daniel W. Pelley
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