Down on the Human Race

In years past, I was the first person to refer friends and friends of friends to various professionals. I enjoyed putting together people I know, and, if one friend can help another --how sweet is that?

Well, as I 've gotten older and more crotchety, I've cut down on these "fix ups," after repeatedly experiencing the old maxim that no good deed goes unpunished.

Well, a few months ago an out of state aquaintance called me, tearfully needing the help of a professional. The details don't matter, but suffice it to say it was a pretty serious matter that had serious consequences for the person, so I relented. I set her up with a specialist I know, and told him to waive any referral fee he might have sent, in order to pass the savings onto the in need person.

Well, the professional did a sterling job. What could have led to devastating consequences for the out of stater instead ended quietly and without any trace of a problem. The professional, who would have charged $7500 for his services, sent the client a bill for $1500.

I got a call from the person today, and she was livid about the charges. Although she agreed that a fair fee would have been at least $6,000, she felt, I guess that the fellow shouldn't charge at all, She truly thought she "had it coming to her."

Of course, I was wholeheartedly embarrassed, and called the professional to apologize. He's a great guy, and said the $1500 wasn't really a big deal to him, and that he told the client that, although she sees herself as a classy person, she's the same as ALL of his clients, many of whom you wouldn't leave alone to cut your grass. Thanks Professot Shultz --anothr lesson in human nature.

In other news, I went to a friend's mother's pre funeral tonight. The woman lived ntil 90 and died in her sleep. What a way to check out of this grand hotel we're all staying in. I had originally thought I'd go to the services tomorrow as well, but then I learned it's a "full high mass" in a Catholic church. Hey --I don't even like my OWN religion, let alone a much sillier and hocus pocus -filled one. I'm taking a pasadena.

As to the aquianitance --I'm done with her. As Luca Brazzi would have said, you won't see her around here no more.