October 2, 2012
Dear Honey Run Friends,
I am always pushing forward in life at a frantic speed as though the clock is ticking and I must accomplish x, y, and z before the clock runs out. While this race can produce mountains of accomplishments it does not produce life. How do you define life? There are text book definitions but I would offer this definition: a collection of relationships and experiences between one’s birth and death. I claim to judge success in life by these metrics.
How I actually live my life is the exact opposite. I allow my tasks to rule my time and my experiences and relationships get the leftovers. In my passion to create the perfect experience at Honey Run I forget to thank the forty-five souls who work so hard to achieve my vision. In my pursuit to update the next thing or repair the next major mechanical issue I forget to stop and meet the thousands of guests who are arriving at the front door of Honey Run to experience the very balance I fail to implement into my own life.
I am blessed with a moment such as this when something triggers a momentary glimpse of all that is good in my life. All of the burdens that come with being a small business owner fade away and I see the good in my life. I see the beauty in our surroundings and I am thankful for each of you who support our hard work by coming to Honey Run to find refuge from this unforgiving world. I am grateful to Marge Stock for her vision to build this secluded retreat on a hillside in Holmes County 30 years ago. I don’t deserve the blessings I have received in life but I pray that my actions and work bless those around me. I pray that each of you has a moment of clarity from time to time so that you can find the meaning of your life’s experiences as you live your definition of life.
I hope to see you at Honey Run soon.
Sincerely,
Jason Nies
What a lovely post. I read a post once, many years ago from The Reader’s Digest. It said, You never know when you are making a memory. You have been a part of making memories for so many since you cam to Honeyrun and we are grateful for your persistence and dedication. I believe that none of us “deserve” the blessings that are so freely given to us, but I do believe that they are given so that we can give back to others.
Job well done, Jason. My husband and I will see you on Nov. 8.
Jason,
We discovered Honey Run many years ago. We still enjoy the opportunity to stay with you. We would particularly like to thank you for the reduced rates as a retired military family on occasions throughout the year. This year we took that opportunity during the July 4th week. Last year, it was the week of Veterans Day and July 4th. During these economic times, it is hard for many to do the things, which you mentioned in your letter. So, again we thank you for allowing us to experience the serenity and secluded retreat that we consider our home away from home ” The Inn at Honey Rum”.
Thanks for the memories,
Kenny Foss
Dear Jason, Thank you for sharing your heart in your writings each month. We hope that the next time we have visit Honey Run we will have the pleasure to meet you and perhaps enjoy a short chat.
Fondly, Jim and Lynn Phillips
Dear Jason,
Thank you for that beautiful newsletter about life. My husband and I are raising two little guys, both working full time and studying for the CPA exam. Needless to say balance in our lives right now is off. After having a crazy day and feeling guilty for not doing everything for work or my children, I sat down and read your letter. Thank you for reminding me to take it easy on myself and enjoy the good stuff. I am now going to shut my computer off and catch a quick run around the block with my children before we put them to bed.
My husband and I are counting down the days to our anniversary getaway to Inn At Honey Run in December. Have A great evening.
Christina Meecha
Jason,
My wife and I too discovered The Inn about 20 years ago and have been guest about 9 times over those years and had the pleasure of meeting Marge and visting with her around the fireplace.
Reading your thoughts and reflections on life confirmed my plans for a surprise 60th Birthday Party for my wife. Knowing that we will be facing a long and difficult illness that has been diagnosed recently for my wife, I decided to create a memory. The Inn will be the place where this Beautiful Memory will be born.
I have invited 18 of her close friends for a weekend celebration next month. I could not think of a more peaceful and accommodating place for me and our friends to honor her. Thank you Marge for creating a unique and peaceful Inn and Jason for continuing to honor the traditions that are so special and dear to every guest.
Warm Regards,
A Special Husband