“Go to the (boxing) mattresses.” It’s from the Godfather. It means you have to go to war. You’re at war. “It’s not personal, it’s business. It’s not personal, it’s business.” Recite that to yourself every time you feel you’re losing your nerve. I know you worry about being brave. Don’t. This is your chance. FIGHT. Fight to the death.

Send.

-Joe Fox, You’ve Got Mail, 1998

This straight forward advice from the character Joe Fox, played by Tom Hanks in the classic film You’ve Got Mail, is refreshing. Fox’s giant book store chain was on the brink of gobbling up the homegrown book shop across the street, owned by Kathleen Kelly, played by Meg Ryan. Unbeknownst to the two owners, they developed a pen pal relationship online. But, sometimes the battle is personal when finances are at stake. Finances that buy food, shelter, and hope for the future. As a small business owner and artist, life feels like a never ending fight. I’ve been called a snake, shady, bitter, and angry for choosing to protect myself, or go to battle, (especially when using professional tools like lawsuits, contracts, and email documentation). But, as Joe Fox would say…’I know you worry about being brave. Don’t’.

Have a Pleasant Day
Rae