Quack quack! Have you ever seen a squirrel darting around your backyard like it’s auditioning for a role in an acrobatic show? Well, let me tell you, this little critter is not just any bushy-tailed rascal.
The subject of my inspired human today has the energy and determination of a squirrel. His human name is Sonny, and his story is as thrilling as a rollercoaster ride on a warm Florida day!
Picture this: a fluffy ball of energy zooming up a tree. Suddenly, he hears a delightful *clink*—a peanut drops from above! Without missing a beat, he spirals down the tree, snatches his treasure, and starts piling it high for the winter, just like I gather my little rubber duck pals after a good splash.
Now, let’s dip into Sonny’s past, shall we? This adventurous guy was dealt some rough cards. Orphaned at the tender age of two, he found himself adopted by a loving couple who desperately wanted kids but couldn’t have any of their own.
Growing up on a charming family farm, Sonny quickly realized that while working unpaid on the family farm was good practice, earning money at the neighbor’s farm sounded much more fun—and profitable! So, what did he do? He hustled his way into a job next door. Talk about savvy!
But life wasn’t all sunshine and daisies. In his teenage years, he faced heartbreak as he lost his adoptive mom to cancer, followed by another gut punch when his dad passed, too. That’s a lot for any creature to bear—I couldn’t even imagine floating down a stream with such weight. Yet, rather than drift away on waves of despair, Squirrel took to life with a spirit meant for soaring!
This guy had talent—mechanical talent! By the age of 19, Sonny was a master mechanic, laboring tirelessly to support his family. And Sonny became the rock they both leaned on when his dad needed him. Sonny’s tenacity kept him bobbing along even when life delivered a blow that could sink anyone.
Now, let’s dive into his shrewd thinking! While wrenching away at engine parts, Sonny spotted something—a tool truck guy who was dapper, cheerful, and didn’t look worse for wear despite the years. Sonny thinks, “I want that life!” He went after it like a well-timed splash!
But wait, there’s more! When Sonny was selling tools, he noticed a pesky problem: Darn credit card fees cutting into his earnings. So, being the inquisitive squirrel that he was, he decided, “I could *totally* do that!” And just like my morning frolics in the tub, he waded in and figured it out, starting a credit card processing company as a side job!
Ever wanted to chase a dream that seems just out of reach? Sonny didn’t want to wait until he was old and gray to enjoy Florida’s sunshine. So, he packed up his family and zoomed over to the Sunshine State! Once there, what did he think? I love motorcycles, particularly Harleys. “Why not sell Harleys?” Spoiler alert: he did!
He then realized that he needed to know more people to be successful at a commissioned sales job, so he needed to find an avenue for Networking like a social butterfly—or perhaps a rubber duck at a pool party. He discovered BNI groups. Instead of just joining one, our go-getter started five! Can you believe it?
Can you see a pattern here? Sonny sees beyond the page, discovers what is next, and makes it happen.
Now, fast-forward to today. Sonny and his lovely wife, who share a passion for motorcycles, have turned their love into a spectacular business that unites bike enthusiasts worldwide!
It wasn’t always smooth sailing, but just like a squirrel scavenging for nuts during fall, Sonny gathered ideas—some golden, some a bit nutty—but they all contributed to his success. They blend his adventurous spirit with his wife’s creativity, their hard work, and a splash of determination, creating a recipe for success. If something doesn’t exist, Sonny detours and makes it himself!
Their latest wonder? A nonprofit that reaches out to bikers in need. How heartwarming is that?
Spending time with this incredible individual on a recent trip was like riding a wave of inspiration! Sonny opened his home to us, took a day off work, and whisked us away on an exhilarating tour of his vibrant world.
So, here’s a big shout-out from me, Bob the Rubber Duck—thank you, Sonny, for being an inspiration and showing us how to float through challenges with style! Keep paddling forward, my friend!
THANK YOU, SONNY, FOR AN INSPIRED
