Martin and I met four or five years back, but it seems like decades ago. Martin, in his youthful 80's, is a non-religious Jew, smart as a dickens, fast on the trigger, with a heart of gold. He is definitely a professional, a real thinker, quiet, alert, and speaks only when contributing. Our daily sprawls in the pool at our health club signify countless extraordinary conversations; dodging small talk, with just a few brittle jokes here and there. His life's multitude of encounters are amazing. His memory is still precise (aside from a few senior moments). He is always self-motivated and strict in business. We have a gentlemen's pact regarding our differences, always with mutual fondness.
I'll never forget the day I quoted VOCALCONNECTION's slogan:
Remember, there's more to life than just living...try singing!
Martin instantly came unglued for a moment, oblivious to others in the pool. His effusion of excitement confirmed our slogan. Never before had any of my original ideas exhibited such a fanfare, at least not in a public pool. With a big grin of excitement on his face, he repeatedly stated our new slogan. "I like it! I really like it, Ode!"
A comradeship already intact, made this even stronger. Martin so unselfishly shared with me his private life and business experiences, both positive and negative, a wealth of experience: what to do and what to avoid. He has likewise attended keenly to my many variations of how to succeed with VOCALCONNECTION's business plans, and has positively convinced me of his genuine faith and interest in our endeavors. In spite of today's "quick-fix-ism-click-on-the-computer-mouse gadget age," he has not hesitated reminding me: "Ode whatever you do, don't rush it. Take your time. Always be vigilant and remember VOCALCONNECTION is a big-timer and it will take off. Take my word for it. Grow ready and go steady and s l o w ." At times I merely moped "Martin, if it goes any slower, I'll simply fall asleep."
Bruchim Habaim Martin
