Our sympathies
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Last Sunday four IBOs were killed in a weather-related car accident while returning home from a business meeting. It was a horrible tragedy that took the lives of four young people -- including two Marines Corps Reserves officers who had proudly served their country.
Kyle Sporleder, 20, of Sylvania, Ohio; Aaron F. Esposito, 23, of Novi, Mich.; Lauren Diefenthaler, 19, of Ypsilanti, Mich.; and Rodney M. Echelbarger, age unknown, of Holland, Ohio were killed on icy Indiana roads returning home Sunday evening. Kyle and Rodney were lance corporals in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves.
Amway Global sends its thoughts and prayers to the families of the victims and has reached out to those who knew them to see if we can be of any help or support during this very difficult time.
But what's made this even more trying for those touched by this tragedy is the reaction of some who are critical of our business. These critics have taken advantage of online coverage of this tragedy to post attacks on our business.
Here in the Opportunity Zone we've respected the rights of those who are critical of our business to hold opinions that differ from our own. We've welcomed their voices and allowed them to share their opinions, within reason and within our comments policies.
But we are shocked and appalled that some have used this tragedy as a forum for their criticisms. To me, this is like showing up at the wake for a shooting victim to deliver a blistering attack on gun reform. It's inappropriate and inconsiderate of those grieving for loved ones taken from them all too soon.
Regardless of your opinions about aspects of our business, please respect those who have lost sons and a daughter, a sister and brothers, friends and colleagues. The families and friends of the victims are suffering a sudden and significant loss and they should not be subjected to this kind of abuse. We are sorry some have chosen to intrude on your grieving with their attacks.
There's a time and place for discussion and debate about this business. This is not the time for anything but supporting the grieving families and friends of Kyle, Aaron, Lauren, and Rodney. Our thoughts are with them.