Mr. M had been working as an overseas engineer for several decades. He haｄ a lot of fans in many places in the world. I was one of them.
He retired and left ISOWA at the age of sixty. His many fans and ISOWA people miss him.
I told him that I wanted to have a farewell dinner when I saw him on his final day. He requested to go to an Indian restaurant. Indian cuisine is my favorite. So, I had no reason to turn it down. Haha!
I invited Mr. H, who had joined ISOWA at the same time as Mr. M. I also invited Mr. O, who had been working hard together for the overseas sales department.
We talked a lot about our past stories.
The customer in Thailand really wanted to work with Mr. M one more time. So, he went on a business trip to Thailand just before his retirement day.
Mr. M said,
“It was a little bit hard to say goodbye when I was leaving.”
“Just completing the tasks is not enough. By maintaining a good relationship with the customers, I can get them involved.”
“Even though the customers and I did not have a common language, I spent break time with them. Then, they were willing to help me. If Japanese people go abroad with other Japanese, they rely on each other. It prevents their growth. I know it is challenging, but young people should go overseas on a business trip alone.”
Wow! I really want young ISOWA people to inherit Mr. M’s wonderful spirit.
His coworker Mr. O told me a secret story about Mr. M.
This is the hand wash counter in our machinery assembly factory.
Mr. M said, “I did not do a special thing. I just poured a chemical, and the counter became clean automatically.” (I forgot the name of the chemical.)
His act was awesome.
Mr. O added, “One day, Mr. M found that there was no soap dish at the counter. Then, he paid for three soap dishes out of his own pocket. He also refilled the detergent bottle. He always did these things when no one was around him.”
He was not only the popular overseas engineer but also very helpful in the office. As the ISOWA president, I felt very sorry that I didn’t realize that he was doing so much for the office and staff.
Mr. O! Why did you wait to tell me about these important stories until the final day of Mr. M!? It was too late. I wanted you to tell me earlier!
When it comes to “out of his pocket,” I would like to mention the original hats for ISOWA’s 100th anniversary.
When he went to Thailand for business purposes, he ordered 100 hats and presented to the ISOWA people. I really loved the nice design, and Mr. M presented two for me. They are still my favorite.
I told Mr. M repeatedly, “If you get bored after retirement, please come back. I always welcome you even if it is tomorrow! Haha.”
Seriously, I really look forward to it.
Until then, please take a break and take good care of your lower back pain. Please visit ISOWA sometime and show me your cheerful face.
Mr. M., thank you very much for your 42 years as a wonderful ISOWA-bito!
