Last month I returned home for the funeral of my eldest brother-in-law. Besides the religious rites that were being performed, there was also a large crowd who turned up to pay their last respects to a man I have known since February 1963 when he entered into matrimony with my eldest sister.
He was an amiable individual who grew up in a rubber estate where his name was well known. His extroversion attracted others in every walk of life to be his friend, a confidant, brother, mentor and most of all a good listener. Within his family circle, he was a loving brother and a caring father who was an idol for his four sons and a daughter who have given him and my sister 12 grand children.
While I was sitting through the funeral rites, the chattering of praises, recognition, good deeds and the legacies my departed brother-in-law has left behind was heard. It was a great feeling to hear all this for he has lived a good life and in heaven he may enjoy his nearness to the creator.
My personal experience with him has been memorable. I still remember him awarding me with a bike back in 1964 when I received very good grades in my annual school exam. We have always enjoyed each others’ company whenever we met up.
In a business context, leaders today can also leave behind an everlasting legacy of who they were as leaders. Leaders today need to extend more of care and understanding to the people around them. They will see that they can receive more cooperation and produce more result by leading people with their soft skills rather than hard skills. It is never too late.
