Jonathan Washburn's big heart

Today is Good Friday to those of us that observe it.  I had told my customers that I was taking the day off.  I had no intentions whatsoever to come into the office.  But here I am.  I received a call earlier from one of our lovely Realty World receptionists to tell me that I had gotten a package. I wasn't expecting anything so I asked her to tell me who it was from.  Cafepress?  I never heard of them but it intrigued me enough that I took the short drive to quell my curiosity.

I took the small package to my office and closed the door behind me.  I opened it...... and gasped!  It was a genuine collector's edition Codger mug!  Oh, how I've been wanting one of those!  I have to be honest and say that my initial reaction was "Oh, those Codgers!  Aren't they sweet?  Sending me a Codger mug."  But when I opened the paperwork enclosed, this is what I found:  "Heard you were eyeing one of those codger mugs.  I hope you enjoy it!  Sincerely, Jonathan W."

Oh my goodness!  A Raingod sent me a gift.  It's much more valuable to me than the cost of the mug.  Imagine that Jonathan somehow, somewhere saw one of my comments (did I make that many, I wonder?) and he was thoughtful enough to do something totally unexpected, and totally appreciated.  This seems to be how Active Rain works, by appreciating the members of their wonderful site, whether by unexpected gifts, a fabulous site that offers benefits beyond our wildest dreams, asking for input from us when they're considering changes, taking suggestions and requests from us when they're not, and just being all around nice guys. (I'm from NY, I use the term guys to mean both sexes).

This is my first year in real estate.  I left a full time job with full benefits 9 months ago to pursue a dream.  I haven't seen a check since August.  I only tell you this so you understand that I had not ordered the mug because I'm broke, not cheap.  Things have been a bit tight lately and I haven't indulged in little treats as often as I'd like to.  Jonathan's gesture came at a time when it means much more to me than he will ever know.  Ever.  I've been trying to keep my chin up and believe that I can make it but 8 months without a paycheck is a long time.  It's been taking it's toll on me.  But things are changing.  I see a light at the end of the tunnel.  I want Jonathan to know that sometimes the smallest of gestures is the biggest of gifts.

Jonathan, you have a big heart.  And I thank you from the very bottom of mine.  The mug is more beautiful than I imagined.  I will treasure it always.  I was going to just send a private thank you.  But I want all Active Rainers to know, if they're not aware of it already, how Active Rain rocks!