“Reflections on Good Company: A Journey with Big Panda and Tiny Dragon”

 

In a recent LinkedIn post, Tiny Dragon, the animated character from J. Norbury’s “Big Panda and Tiny Dragon” cartoon, sparked a cascade of thoughts about the value of company in our lives. The familiar duo that once triggered musings on companionship now led me to ponder a different question: “How good company are others to me?”

 

Unexpectedly, a twist of fate rekindled my connection with the cartoon in a profound way. A friend, silent for over seven years, reached out for a potential business collaboration. Our virtual meeting felt like a seamless continuation of a recent lunch, brimming with sincerity, openness, warmth, and trust.

 

As I reflected on this reunion, it dawned on me that over seven years ago, we were actively collaborating, sharing customers and opportunities, all without establishing common objectives for our careers or life journeys. In this realization, I concluded that our connection endured because, without explicit communication, we both considered each other “good company.”

 

This revelation prompted a shift in perspective regarding Tiny Dragon’s response, leading me to reassess my initial question: “How good of company am I to others, irrespective of the destination or journey?”

 

The unexpected reconnection emphasized the enduring power of genuine connections and the importance of being good company to those around us. It served as a reminder that the value of relationships extends beyond shared goals, careers, or journeys. Instead, it lies in the authenticity, warmth, and trust that underpin our interactions.

 

So, as we navigate our personal and professional landscapes, perhaps we can all take a moment to consider the impact we have on others. Are we, like Tiny Dragon and Big Panda, creating a sense of sincerity and openness in our connections? Are we fostering an environment where trust thrives, even in the absence of explicit agreements?

 

In the end, it’s not just about the destinations we reach or the journeys we undertake; it’s about the company we keep and the meaningful connections we cultivate along the way.