One of my favorite restaurants is Harold and Belles, I love their New Orleans Cajun cuisine. They have been a visible and viable part of the Los Angeles community for over half a century. I have had the pleasure of working with two generations of the Legaux family who have owned the restaurant for three generations. Not only do they provide spicy seafood gumbo, shrimp etouffee, and my favorite the charbroiled oysters, but they also serve a healthy and hearty portion of hospitality and customer service. One of the ambassadors of warmth and kindness was their Director of Operations, Andrew Alvarado. Andrew was a pleasure to work with and would make you feel welcome, and he always let you know how much he appreciated your support and patronage of the restaurant. I was deeply saddened when I recently received the news that Andrew had passed away. He was a committed husband, son, brother, and friend. I will always remember his thoughtfulness, gentle spirit, and wonderful smile. After being with the restaurant for just a few years he instantly became a favorite to both the customers and employees. He came in every day with an infectious positive attitude that was felt by everyone he encountered. His legacy will always be how he showed value, added value, and brought value to the Harold and Belles team. Andrew will be sorely missed.
When we lose someone, it makes us reflect and think about our own lives and our contributions to our family, community, and workplace. After this kind of internal reflection do you know where and to whom you are of value to? You become a value when you are honest, trustworthy, respectful, and considerate of others. When others can count on you to be reliable, responsible, and reputable this adds value to the relationship. Wanting to be a person who is a value to others does not mean you have to be perfect; it means you are striving to be the best version of yourself and wanting to make a positive impact on the world around you. To be a person of value you must be able to earn people’s confidence and trust. To add value to others you should have personal values you live by that uphold sound moral principles. Albert Einstein said, “Try not to become a person of success, but rather try to become a person of value.” I believe the more valuable you are, the more successful you will be.
Before you can be a value to others you must first value yourself and know your worth. Valuing yourself gives you the confidence and integrity to dream big, not be afraid of failure, and not have to rely upon someone else to determine your value. One thing I have learned in my season of greatness journey is, to be of value to someone else I must prioritize myself. I must make sure my needs are being met and I do not neglect my well-being. For many years, I pushed my priorities aside for others, no longer will I make someone a priority, if they treat me as an option. The more you value yourself the more valuable you can be to others. Andrew, thank you for touching so many lives through your service of hospitality. #AndrewRIP #HB
Healing Without Hate: It’s a choice. It’s a lifestyle. Pass it on.
Visit www.WendyGladney.com and www.forgivingforliving.org to learn more. Wendy is a life strategist, coach, consultant, author, and speaker.