“How can I help YOU?” are the words uttered out of this incredibly inconspicuous lady we all call Bonnie. We all know Bonnie but if you don’t, she’s a rare archetype of a human that I hope you’re lucky enough to come across in another lifetime.
“How can I help you” is a phrase often offered but rarely actuated. It’s a pledge made by all but few pack the power behind it? When you say it, does it stand with action attached or is it offered as a pleasantry? Humans are inherently selfish and so when you meet someone who’s only intention is to help you with no expectations of anything in return, it’s rare and beautiful.
One of the greatest superpowers is one’s ability to foster community. Someone whose Raison d'être is to bring people together and enable the synapse connections between others. Someone whose first sentence that escapes their mouth upon meeting you is – “you have to meet so-and-so!”
Bonnie’s been through a lot in life. She’s in her 70s, was one of the pioneering women in the IT space when the telecom boom of the 80s and 90s arrived on our doorstep and she became a fortune teller of sorts for the commercial real estate barons of New York City – helping them navigate the new waters of telecom contracts and in-building networking. Personally she’s been through the ringer of life as well. Without divulging her personal life, she’s prevailed through life’s unfairness and kept a smile on her face throughout life’s sucker-punches. Never down and out, always willing to fight another day despite the mud covered stick walloping at her heart. How does she combat it – by offering to help others. Psychologically, how else do we cope and excel - by giving.
We are happiest when we help others. Selfishness leads to unhappiness, selflessness leads to self-actualization and Bonnie - and Bonnie’s alike - personify selflessness.
Funny enough, I don’t even fully comprehend what Bonnie does or the services she offers but I’d recommend her anyway because someone who is so adept at connection building is likely well suited to help in all facets of life and business.
Bonnie is my reminder that when I say I’m here to help – I mean it.
Great reminder to be more like Bonnie.
You’ve been a Bonnie to me since the day i met you. Grateful for you, Eric!