A & I

A was one of the few people who have influenced me deeply. The conflicts we had have inspired me a lot. He had a strong character, and so do I. This caused a lot of tension and direct confrontations when discussing business policies and management direction.

He didn't like me at the start we work together. Me neither.

He was a gifted speaker and seldom losed an argument as he could always skillfully lead the discussion to reach his conclusion. But I knew his tactics so well and would not let him ward off the points and concerns I raised. Although quite often things turned out the way I wanted, I didn't feel good about it as I was becoming arrogant and did not respect him in the way I should.

I was not a good subordinate. Submissiveness and humbleness was what I need to learn in this relationship.

But at the same time, A treasured my existence. And so did I.

For more than a few times he mentioned to people close to him how much he appreciated my care and support when he was fighting cancer. He knew I love and cared about him and his families from my heart, although he still got irritated with this bold, arrogant, straight-line thinking and stubborn subordinate.

He possessed a very charming charisma that is rarely seen in a Japanese -- visionary, daing, confident, flexible, versatile and vibrant. Plus his handsome appearance, he always drew people (and business) to him. The longer I work with him, the more I appreciate him as a leader, although I still got cranky when he ignored the company rules and decide things the way he fancied.

Slowly, I learned to be submissive to his commands. I listened more and argued less in our discussions. But when I start to feel that he will soon appreciate me as a helpful, supportive subordinate, the chance is gone, forever.