A first impression and an impact that has lasted 22 years and beyond….
It is impossible not to smile when I think of Mr. Bruce. My very first experience with him was about 22 years ago. I won Cash Call as the Individualist Manager in Pleasanton, and he was at the Recognition Meeting. After the meeting, he was walking the store. As he passed my department, he stated from the hard aisle: “There’s the lady with the smile!”. He said a few more words, but that first impression was lasting for many reasons. He was kind, warm, genuine and sweet. His light was shining from the inside out. Moreover, he took the time to acknowledge me as employee and fill my bucket. His name was on the building. He could have kept walking, but he didn’t. That simple, yet sweet moment, very early in my career demonstrated how we should make our employees feel: valued and seen. Fast forward to the last time I saw Mr. Bruce in person – the store opening in Puerto Rico. It was a pure delight watching him dance to the music from the Puerto Rican culture right before we opened our doors. Joy was beaming from him, It was amazing. I found myself sitting next to him and his wife at Habitant later, and he was just as kind as the first time I met him. I am so grateful for the Mr. Bruce’s life. I am so honored that I was able to witness and experience his legacy. May it continue to live on through all of us. Rest peacefully Mr. Bruce. Job exceptionally well done…