I have a number of clients in Texas – particularly in Beaumont, about 90 miles East of Houston. As hurricane Harvey advanced, I was in touch by phone with with some of my clients who live in the area. Things were not good and getting worse by the hour.

After getting off the phone I couldn’t figure out what we might do to be of some small assistance in the aftermath of the 55 inches of rain and all the flooding. I talked again with my clients a couple of days later and they reported that over half of their 400 employees were flooded out of their homes.

The next morning as I was sipping coffee and reading news reports on my computer – an idea popped into my brain. Apples!

Washington state, where I have a home, is the apple capital of the world. I did a quick search and located a company called PakItRite in Wenatchee, WA that packs and ships fruit. I called and spoke with someone named Randy and told him what we wanted to do to help out our friends in Beaumont. I placed an order for 16 crates of mixed fruit (apples, pears, peaches) to be delivered to the company in Texas.

About ten minutes after hanging up the phone, I received a call back from Randy. He identified himself as the owner of the company. He tells me that he and his wife Diane were moved by our generosity and wanted to partner with HoyleCohen in this endeavor. He was inspired by our contribution. He suggested that his company would donate the fruit if we would cover shipping costs. I immediately agreed and thanked him for his kindness.

I am always amazed at the kindness and generosity of people when there is a need or crisis. And kindness begets more kindness. My learning: Kindness is a Multiplier!