WhatGoesAroundComesAround_DavisRob

A while later, sitting with Howard and chatting about why he had taken
the job at Lever, Jerry plopped down on a chair to join us. He was a bit
worn out from all the energy he’d expended.
“Show over Jerry?” Howard asked.
“What are you talking about Howard?” Jerry responded a bit testily.
“Apologize to Rob for that crappy comment you made when you walked
in. In fact, he hasn’t had any problem filling your shoes at all,
especially since you stopped filling them yourself a long time before you
left here. Though I must say that you are so talented it was worth
having you, even if you were cheating both us and yourself. No Jerry,
we’ve done just fine. By the way, are you still cheating yourself?”
I was somewhat stunned. What do you say? Howard had just, quietly,
leveled Jerry at the knees. It was obvious that Howard had been deeply
disappointed by Jerry’s actions and was taking this opportunity to let
him have it while he had the chance.
“Howard,” I said. “Whatever your beef may be with Jerry, he’s here to
honor you at what is, by the way Howard, a party for you! Get it? A
party. So lighten up and let’s get on with the fun. Okay?”
Things soon got back on track, and I kicked off the roast on Howard.
Several of those present made comments about their experience with
him and what he’d meant to their life and career. The most poignant of
these comments was offered by Jerry, who spoke last. There were few
dry eyes when he finished, followed by lots of hugging and best wishes
offered before everyone went their way.
Several days later, the phone rang in my office. It was Jerry,
apologizing and asking if I’d have lunch with him. It was the beginning
of a strange, yet wonderful friendship that lasted for many years, and