I was speaking with my father this weekend and the subject came up of missed opportunities. I always lament that I should be one of the people that made a fortune during the internet boom, but alas, I had no vision at the time. Anyway, my father reminded me of what happened to him…
Forty-some odd years ago, my dad opened up a land surveying business in northern New Mexico. It was difficult those first few years for him and my family. Jobs came in slowly, but he did a good job and charged a fair price, so gradually his reputation built up. It was during this time that he was asked to survey a ranch.
It wasn’t that big of a job, but it was probably the biggest he had gotten since going into business for himself. For a struggling man with two small children and a wife to look after, this job was a godsend. However, when it was finished, the woman who ordered the survey asked if he could possibly, in lieu of cash, take a painting as payment.
Today, my father would probably take her up on it, as he is very successful and it seemed like the woman could’ve used some financial help. Back then, though, he really needed the money, so he politely declined. She said that was fine and paid the balance in full.
The place he surveyed is in Abiquiu, New Mexico, and the woman’s name was Georgia O’Keeffe.
I first heard that story a few years ago when we re-surveyed Ghost Ranch. I asked him why he declined the painting, as she was already famous when he did the survey. He said he really needed the money and that regardless, he had never heard of her. I don’t think he was pulling my leg, but it is possible.
In any case, please share your stories of missed opportunities.