My values got tested recently. I was about to hire a contractor to do some granite installation in my home. The owner of the business did the consult. He is a very attractive man from another country. He was overtly flirtatious, borderline inappropriate, but I did not take it seriously and merely laughed it off. That was not the biggest problem.
Later that week, I was invited to a friends for dinner. She and her husband just had their kitchen remodeled by the very same company. It looked lovely. She was pleased with the work, but an ugly event occurred. The brother to the owner of the business made their cabinets. When he came to their home, he said, “I want my money now because you are a Jew.” My friend thought she had heard incorrectly, until he repeated his anti-semitic remark. I was horrified, shocked, and hurt for her. Now I had a moral decision – this granite business is known to be one of the best around and everything was set to begin the project.
How could I give this overtly anti-semitic company my business? I knew I could not. I went into the business and spoke with the owner and his charming wife privately, in their office, with the door closed. I told them what happened with my friend, and that I could not financially support a business who held such anti-semtic views. They were shocked and attempted to distance themselves from the family member who made the remarks, and then even said, “It was a joke.” Uh-uh. I didn’t buy their explanation. So, I didn’t buy their product. I found another company. Although it took more time and effort to get references and go begin the process all over again, I know I morally did the right thing.
I have always told myself I will not permit any type of anti-semitism or racism in my home or my presence. The Universe tested me and I feel good about holding to my stance. Ironically, I got a better deal with the second place! As my mother always said, “To do right has it’s own reward.”
Leave a Reply