Solace

Today, we did a lake paddle and I took “El Zorro,” a kayak I acquired last year. The paddlers on this trip have seen more than their share of kayaks. But several felt compelled to speak up and compliment this craft in glowing terms. They were unaware they provided some solace. One of my guidelines in negotiation as a businessman was to always be willing to walk away from a deal. And yet, when I inquired about this boat through an ad and received a photo from the owner, I knew I was doomed. I had to have it. Period. I fought valiantly and held out on some points, generating untold anxiety that I had killed the deal. But, in the end, I gave up more than I would have in other circumstances. I haven’t regretted it a bit, but there has always been that nagging irritation that I compromised my principles. Until today. I feel vindicated.