7 Steambath

FALLING UPHILL.

A strange, even contradictory image.

How does one fall uphill?

The idea defies gravity; the concept suggests the opposite of momentum.

But when people ask to what I attribute my success, I say that my chief talent has been my ability to fall uphill.

Something—an unseen wind at my back or a gentle, but strong and persistent invisible hand—has consistently and propitiously lifted me out of the depths of confusion, debt, and danger, literally pushed me away from death’s door at least twice, and made me fall up, toward that impossible peak in the distance, embodying more than safety, symbolizing success. I have fallen far more than I’ve climbed.

Call it faith—and I do—or luck—I call it that, too—but here we are.

Constantly aware that my major talent is falling uphill, I rely on one other talent.

I know my limits. I am fully aware of the many things I cannot do. I embrace my shortcomings. Doing that allows me to surround myself with the absolute best people, people who excel at their talents. I also find, not surprisingly, that in almost every case, the top people are also the best people. Surround yourself with excellence and with kindness. Love what you do. Love the people you’re with. Why? Hell, Why not? Allow me to share an important life rule, which I call a Bulleit Point.

Make It Personal

(We Are All in the Relationship Business)

I live by that rule. Well, that rule and a list of other Bulleit Points.

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The deal I make with Sazerac includes ...

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