Major development!

I've been away for a few weeks for Pesach, and read Richard Branson's latest book. I couldn't put it down!

Firstly he is someone who always thinks big and it very much a "just do it!" kinda guy! (Rabbi Naftali Schiff gave me Branson's book "just do it" a while back.) But he also has Virgin advisers around him that are ruthlessy analytical and analyse any business proposal to the nth degree.

He talks about the tension of "firefighting" and 'planning long term', about the importance of approaching charitable causes with the seriousness of business sensibilty and principles.

The book is powerful because Richard Branson is someone who clearly wants to make a difference to the world. Whether it is space colonies, Aids in Africa, the environment, or incredible customer service thoughout his businesses, he is driven by positivity, care, and passion for life.

There was alot I took out of the book that can be incorporated into the idea that is developing.

When I got back from the Pesach vacation, I set up to meet Rabbi Schiff, head of Aish UK, and presented the idea to him. He seemed to like it alot, and gave lots of good input and feedback. I suggested to him that we aim for $3 million to be raised for charity. He said why not $6 million! So that is that!:)

He suggested I meet Rabbi Rowe then and there, 'as this kind of project is his expertise' and he had such a brilliant take on the whole project, and gave it a whole new added focus!

After the meeting that night, while in the airport flying out for business, I sent them a brief outline of what the project would look like based on the chats earlier in the day.

Rabbi Schiff wrote back

"Haven't read in detail, but in theory LOVE IT! Wana check w one of the Aish Big Men and then let's see how to proceed! Shkoach"

The ball is no longer in my court for the time being... Phew! I'll wait to see what response Rabbi Schiff gets from Aish International, and if they want to proceed, and then whether they need me or not to help out with a roll out.

To get to this point has been interesting and exciting! New ideas are complex to implement and many factors need to be considered way beyond my appreciation. It has been a nourishing experience thus far, and eitherway I feel I have learnt alot by connecting more deeply with the ideas of Reb Noach z'l, and trying to do something positive for Jewish pride and invigoration. :)