I had dinner with a Billionaire

Well, sorta but I'm counting it! I went to West Baden Springs (Indiana historic hotel beside French Lick) to have dinner with some friends last friday night. One friend is a Urologists, a history buff, who started to tell me the story of this hotel that was built in 1902 & fell into disrepair. He went on to tell me that the hotel was saved just a few years ago by a billionaire that started in the medical equipment business. (This billionaire spent over 30 million just to fix the foundation). The billionaire's name is William Cook. My friend met him 20 years ago at a medical seminar, and recognized him sitting in the table beside us, in the restaurant. The next thing I know, he goes up to this guy, and long story short I got to meet him. He stuck his hand right out, and said "I'm Bill Cook". I talked with him (about the hotel which is his passion) for several minutes and was amazed at this guy. He is in his mid 70's and has the enthusiasm of someone in their 20's.

I googled him, he was listed at #214 on the richest in 2006. He drove a cab at one time, and is self made in the medical equipment business. (Yes, a friend took my picture with him, so if I ever get it I will post it). If you look him up, you will see that he started with about $1500.00 in tools and took it from there!

I think what I got out of this was - enthusiasm. You can never have enough of it.

Thanks for sharing your experience Ky! It is so much fun to meet successful people - - - and identify traits in them that you admire.

Great story!! Pics! Starting with $1,500 in tools ... now worth billions ... wow.

Next time you hear "I don't have any money to start a business" you know it's just a BS excuse, a crutch for those lacking the fortitude. No amount of money replaces resolve.