Monday Message #2

Dear Friend,

My mind seems to translate what I am experiencing in the moment. I might be analyzing
consumer responses to a new product to assess the likelihood of future sales success.
In this analytical mindset, I am seeking the highest and most effective outcome possible
for financial gain or strong consumer experience. In another moment, I may be in total
wonder of the beauty in front of me, such as a light snow falling on my field. In this
example, I have no need but to enjoy the wonder of the moment.
Martin Buber, a twentieth century theologian, claims in his book, I and Thou, that the
human mind is two-fold. He means that we can perceive a tree having utility for fuel, on
the one hand, or joy for its beauty on the other. We behold the moment and reflect on
the choice.

At Tom’s of Maine, we had ample applications of Buber’s explanation. Raw materials
used in the toothpaste were from renewable natural sources, like spearmint oil, useful
for its pleasant flavoring; the selection of the sweetest variety took a highly analytical
focus; at the same time, the selection carried a whole and beautiful quality for its
sustainability in the practice of renewable farming every year. A second example is how
we perceived the workforce. They had both a role description to guide them and be
evaluated but they also had the right to spend 5% of their time in the community
volunteering with select non-profit organizations. A little time away from the company
task for helping their community was greatly appreciated. A third example is the pricing
of the product to create both a profit for owners but also a 10% of profits for community
grants. These two different perceptions, one for the utility of the resource and the other
for the inherent beauty of the object itself came from our Statement of Beliefs, which
acknowledged that “we believe that people and nature are inherently worthy and
deserve our respect.”

Buber’s point is that the mind’s ability to behold an object either for its utility or beauty
helps me everyday to respect entity. As Aretha Franklin sang out, “r-e-s-p-e-c-t,” I am
respectful of the beauty and dignity of people and nature. My Quaker upbringing makes
me mindful that God is in all things. If I ask a worker to use their particular skills, I need
to respect their dignity as I write a job description. This experience has helped me
develop a fundamental love for the gifts of all people.

I wonder how beauty will greet me today as I task my way through it. Perhaps beauty
will greet you today too.