In the true tradition of Broadway, when a great actor, director or composer passes on, they are honored by a dimming of the lights in the Theater District of New York City.

And although the lights may not dim this week for my cousin Millie, who passed away this weekend, Broadway will never be the same.

Millie, a life-long patron of the theater has left us after a brief battle with cancer. She was 82 years young when she passed; and although her eyesight had diminished throughout the years, her energy, her love for the theater and her passion for people remained strong.

Millie was sharp as a tack and taught me one of the most important life lessons I had ever learned. It proved to be a lesson that has helped me in every one of my endeavors.

She made everyone in her presence feel right at home simply because she listened to the people who she spoke with. She was never condescending, judgmental or one to point out a fault. She would find something, anything, that was a positive and she would expand upon it, causing whoever she was speaking with to open up and feel comfortable. She could speak on any number of topics, find some commonality or experience to relate it to, and engage in a full length, meaningful conversation.

I’m sure you can see the benefits of listening. Whether it’s to our clients, our children or our friends, listening to what they have to say can make or break the relationship. It’s something I’ve never forgotten and something I utilize on a daily basis.

I recently visited with Millie and had the opportunity to tell her how much she meant to me and how I learned this lesson from her. It meant a lot to me to let her know this and it meant a lot to her to hear it.

When I heard of Millie’s illness, I called her to see how she was doing and to let her know I was coming in to the city. I knew her time with us was fading fast, so I just wanted to take her to lunch or dinner and listen to her perhaps for the very last time. She immediately got out her little appointment book and wrote me in. She also insisted I stay at her place during my visit. But here’s the kicker. She told me to bring empty suitcases as she was “considering downsizing”! Once again, rather than make anyone (in this case, me), feel uneasy, Millie incorporated the old Real Estate term of “downsizing” and used it to make me feel comfortable.

It proved to be the last time we spoke. It also reminded me of the indelible lesson Millie has forever left upon me.

So tonight people, as you shut your lights for the evening, please consider it your own personal “Broadway dimming of the lights” tribute to Millie; and take her lesson with you wherever you go, no matter what you do.

The world was a better place because of Millie.

Rest in peace Millie.

Love,

Craig