Some time ago, one of our family's Christmas gifts was a simple apron that said, "We are family! Everybody ...includes you and me." Below that heading was the arthmetic progression of unique names added as we go back each generation (females). Similar to the idea that there is only six degrees of separation, by the time of the Pilgrims we each have anywhere from 524,288 to 1,048,576 (calculation) family trees to follow.

Within the 9th century we have over 17 trillion famiy trees to follow. Given that there are so many overlapping genetic pools, the conclusion is "You've got the whole world in your genes." It is a powerful thought that we are all in some manner related.

It makes the breakfasts as much an ingathering of distant family members as much as an act of kindness and generosity.

Topic for Discussion Is there any way to carry the Joe T.'s model over to your own business?

Answer: Of course. There are many businesses that we have studied that host breakfasts and lunches for their customers, suppliers and employees on a regular basis. At Opici Wine Group, the founders have eaten dinner with a customer every week for sixty years. Opici hosts parties for suppliers to introduce them to the customers. Business is not cut and dried. It is so much about feelings, especially when you are working to build something that will out live you.

You think about it: What could you do to make your suppliers feel more like family?