Pay it Forward

I have something I have been trying to put into practice and I thought I would pass it on. A few months or ago a kid walked up to me when I was stopped in my car and told me how nice it was. I was on the phone and kind of brushed him off. I could tell that he was discouraged and he left before I had a chance to get off the phone. It really bothered me that I didn't take the time to time to address his enthusiasm.

Since that day I decided that any kid that is willing to come up to me and ask about the car not only gets my full attention but gets invited to sit in it and I'll take a picture of him if he has a cell phone that does so. It is easy to forget that most people will never get that opportunity and I guess it is my way of paying it forward. I was wondering what everyone else thought of this and I encourage everyone else to give it a try. You really make the kids day.

Thoughts?

 

I agree totally. It seems recently a few times that the people that are interested the most hit me up at inopportune times, i.e. I'm on the phone and can't get off, or have to leave immediately due to an appointment, or I am trying to follow someone and they are waiting on me. I always feel bad being short, and always worry that I am giving off the "stereotyped owner" impression. I try to apologize with a smile, but it always bothers me later on. If I have nothing going on, I'll go out of my way to make sure that whoever I am talking with gets the full treatment, even when they ask me if it's a kit, or a convertible testarossa, or if the horsey means it's a special mustang...

 

Yes. It's always nice to see a smile. Kids remember.

 

I couldn't agree with you more. I have a polaroid camera in my car and I take a picture of them sitting in the car. Even the Dad's and Mom's. I let everyone enjoy it. It's the best feeling you will ever have to see them leave with a smile on there faces. Good times. Life is all about memories.

Lou

 

When the day comes that I can afford one of these I'm absolutely going to share it with anyone who notices it.

I've always loved Ferraris, but my real passion started when a neighbor moved in next door with a 512TR and F355. Always took the time to talk to me about the cars, show them to me and give me a few rides. It really can change someone's life.

 

I love the idea of the having a camera in the car. The only problem is where to you keep it and isn't the film harder to find than a Ferrari on the road?

 

Tom, the horsey meaning that it is a "special mustang" is too much. I haven't heard that one. Several have asked if it is a mustang but not a special one. You should tell them that it is a "short bus" mustang and you have to wear a helmet when you drive it!

 

Lovely sentiment - I'd certainly do that if I was ever able to.

The same is true for young men. Although, we're less likely to interject with a comment if we see you're on the phone.

Back in February, getting shown various Ferraris by Francis (francisn), Mark (Mark456M), and getting to sit in Sy's 348 really made my whole month, let alone just day.

All the best,
Andrew.

 

A Cell Phone givey the illusion that you are important because people want to reach you. In reality you are on an electronic leash and are just another cog in the machinery.

Don't drive with the cell phone, enjoy the real freedom of not being on a leash.

 

I try and participate in as many charity events throughout the driving season as possible..
While its always nice to raise money for a worthy cause... the best events are the ones where the kids are able to get up close and personal with the cars...

the giant smiles are very contagious
Image Unavailable, Please Login
Image Unavailable, Please Login
Image Unavailable, Please Login
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

When I had my 355 on display at the Pasadena Concorso kids and their dads would come check out my car. The kids would get too close and the dad would say "Jr. don't scratch the car". I would then ask the kid how his/her grades were at school and if they told me they had good grades, I would let them sit in the car and take a picture. For the kids who didn't have good grades, I told them I would be there next year and to try harder in school. They agreed they would work harder and hopefully I will see them next year...

 

Two weeks ago I was gassing up and behind me was a guy my age with his young son. His son was pointing to my 348ss and and was very excited. The dad came over and I introduced myself and ask his son what his name was. "Dominic", he replied, I asked him if he liked the car, and while holding his dads hand he looked at his dad and nodded, "yes". Then he asked me (The boy was about 6 or 7) if the car had Nitros. I started laughing and asked where did that come from. The father rolled his eyes and said video games! I said well Dominic if it is OK with your dad would you like to sit in the drivers seat ? You should have seen this kids eyes light up. the dad was very appreciative, I sat jr. in the seat and dad says "DON'T TOUCH ANYTHING". Needless to say little Dom was happy and the father and I chatted for about ten minutes and he was very appreciative of letting me have him sit in the car.
Very nice father and son team.

 

Great story! I know when I do it, it makes me feel good. I think we should all do it every chance we get. Just think what it does for the kids and it doesn't hurt our reputation either.

 

Nice Pic's. You can tell the kids really appreciate it.

 

Recently took a co-worker's son on a long ride for his 13th birthday and posted the video on youtube. Hopefully he'll remember it forever, and if he doesn't...Google will. :O

Another time recently, I was walking back to my car in the parking lot and 2 teenage boys were all over the car (not touching it). When I got close, I was smiling and asked if they wanted a closer look inside. I also invited them to sit in it and check it out - which, one of them did.

Also, FWIW, I drive with my cellphone on me but never use it in the 355...just way too loud and too much going on with my hands already.

 

I better clear this up. I wasn't on the cell while driving. Just stopped in a parking lot and finishing a conversation when he came up. I have wireless Bluetooth with a mic when I am driving. It has background suppression and works okay but it is tough with the background noise.

 

Guys,

This reminds me of something that went around the Lotus community a while back when I first entered the "exotic ownership" realm. It made tremendous sense when I first read it and I've tried to live by it ever since. I pay particular attention to #2, but they're all important in their own right. Anyway, I'm glad I was able to find it:

Tom
1994 348 SS
New Hampshire

_________________________________________________________________

Originally written by Joe Martz ([email protected]) in 1998 who has owned 2 NSX's plus several Italian exotics, the Code of Conduct has become a personal motto for many of us. Originally posted to the Ferrari list, it is worth repeating and living by.

_________________________________________________________________

EXOTIC CAR OWNER'S CODE OF CONDUCT

1. My cars will always be clean and well presentable. I will ensure that my cars are in the highest state of mechanical condition and maintenance. Exotics are indeed rare, and to see one is a special experience. I have an obligation to present these cars to others at a high standard.

2. I will always be polite, courteous, and friendly. I will not talk down to or ignore anyone, and I will cheerfully answer all questions. Exotic owners wrongly suffer from a "snob" label. By actively and always countering this, I will strive to change this perception among all whom I meet.

3. Where feasible, I will encourage inspection and observation of my cars. If someone is clean and courteous, I will encourage them to sit in my cars. I will actively encourage photographs. In particular, I will encourage this among younger children. On occasion, I will offer rides to admirers under the appropriate circumstances.

4. With one exception (see 5, below), I will obey all traffic laws or local traffic customs. Especially, I will pass other cars only in marked, safe passing zones, and I will always respect traffic speeds and noise ordinances within city limits. I will always drive in a defensive manner to protect myself and my vehicle. I will not initiate nor will I respond to challenges to race my cars on open public roads.

5. Operating my cars as God, Enzo, and Ferruccio (or Colin) intended will occur only on open, rural routes free of heavy traffic or on appropriately designated race courses. On public highways, I will use my highest powers of observation and diligence to ensure that I place myself, my vehicles, and the public in no additional danger. I will be aware of the environment and road conditions, and I will not drive at excessive speeds on unknown or suspect roads. When approaching blind corners or hills, I will assume that an obstacle exists and will take appropriate defensive measures.

6. I will share my passion and excitement for exotic cars with others through community service and charitable events. I will actively seek out community organizations such as local police departments and schools and offer my cars for use in events such as DARE programs, homecoming parades, pep rallies, etc. Many communities have "Make a Wish" foundations for sick children. If given the opportunity, I will offer a day with myself and my cars to such organizations in an effort to brighten an otherwise trying life for someone less fortunate than I.

7. I will be honest and open with other enthusiasts, and I will accurately represent my cars to prospective owners and buyers. I will keep complete records, and I will always follow up with purchasers of my cars to ensure that they continue to gain maximum satisfaction and appreciation for cars that I have owned and serviced.

8. I will always have a smile on my face when inspecting, driving, or showing my cars to others. I will never forget how fortunate I've been to own such automobiles and I will constantly remind myself that the future is uncertain, and that today may be as good as it gets

(© Copyright 1998)

 

very well said too fast

 

Awesome, I let kids/people look at my car all the time when I am pulled up somewhere up town.

Have taken some kids for rides too with their parents permission.

All in good fun. I like the Polaroid camera idea. Can supply a pic on the spot for them that I am sure they will treasure for the rest of their lives.

 

Really a great story !!!!

 

I don't like that - don't ever brush anyone off who approaches you in admiration to talk to you about your Ferrari, especially a kid.

 

Yes, great idea! I am for nurturing the same enthusiasm in others that I had for cars as a boy and still do. Those are the events that can make for wonderful memories all the way to old age...

 

I started letting kids sit in my 355 for a picture a few months ago at a car show....

Parents came back to my location and told me that "you made my kids day" !

I costs you nothing and it can be something that a kid will remember for a long, long time.
(I know I would have)

Let's all make it a habit !

 

We must all remember that we are ambassadors not only for our model and brand but all exotic car owners (something that worries me about the Lambo set ). We extend these courtesies to kids and adults alike. Kids are important because they are impressionable and making the right impression on them creates the next generation of Ferrari enthusiasts. Not all of the them will end up owners, but everyone of them, when extended the courtesy of time, a ride or just a sit-in, will never forget the experience. And face, it, it takes a certain degree of success to get and keep one, so the future owner is going to generally be a benefit to society. All from just showing a kid a car. Wow.

 

Excellent post Vince.