Feb23Written by:Rod Brown
Tuesday, February 23, 2010 2:09 PM 
In 1985 I received a classic, dark green marble desk set engraved with my name, the year and the title of the award I was given. It is a an old fashioned design with a flat engraved stand holding a sleek gold pen and matching mechanical pencil. I clearly remember that evening at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel. It was 24 years ago when I was called up to the stage and received both the award and the accolades in front of approximately 150 peers, co workers and vendors. It felt like a mini Oscar Ceremony.
Since then I have occupied probably 20 or more different offices in 6 different cities and numerous different buildings. I have sat in many different office chairs at many different desks. I can’t count how often I have changed phones, PDA’s and computers but the desk set remains, front and center, on whatever desk I use. I have carried the set with me to illustrate to my clients the power of recognition and memory. I have sent the pencil back to be reconditioned at the factory. As I write this blog, it sits on my desk with the name of the company where I worked, the title of the award and the personalization with my name. It is a part of my history now, a signpost and a fond remembrance of past success. I continue to have fond feelings for the company from whom I received the award and appreciate their efforts at recognizing my contribution.
I know I have received other awards. I’m sure I have been given the occasional cash bonus but I don’t remember cash after it has been spent. Somehow, that particular desk set combined beauty, utility and adaptability in a way that makes it timeless. A similar desk set today costs approximately $200.00 from the same AT Cross company in Rhode Island that made mine a long time ago. Amortize the expense of that brand memory over 24 years.
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