I was 7 years old then. All I wanted was to buy a few tootsie rolls and a roll of gum that came with its own dispenser. I thought I had enough money but the cash register lady said a number much larger than the coins I clutched in my hand. In a panic, I counted my coins again. I didn’t have enough. As I painfully chose a few pieces of candy to give up, the man waiting in line behind me reached into his pocket and handed me a quarter. “Don’t even think about putting those tootsie rolls back. They’re delicious.” He said. Well, I think that’s what he said. I was overcome with shame at my mistake and joy at a stranger’s kindness. He was right about those tootsie rolls though. They were delicious.
With a story you can share ideas, conjure emotions, and explain how a particular product or service offers a certain value.
I’ve told you a story. Now it’s your turn.
Redemption Song
When I was a teenager, my parents helped me buy an amazing guitar, a wine red Gibson Les Paul. Years later, my interest in music waning, I sold that guitar so that I could by a computer monitor. I immediately regretted my decision and continued to regret it for about a decade. Finally, I tracked down the guy I had sold the guitar to, offered him a king’s ransom for it and bought it back. I will always feel good about having done this. Always. Sadly, I will also always feel bad for having sold the guitar in the first place.