The Value of Human Life

As reported in many news outlets, David Kellermann, the acting CFO of Freddie Mac was found dead in his home on 22 April 2009. Initial reports indicate suicide. His death should be a reminder to all of us that human life is more valuable than career, wealth, houses, or just about anything else.

As we are all aware, the financial crisis of 2009 is taking an incredible toll on millions of people world-wide. As a manager, you spend a significant amount of time with people like David Kellermann, people exposed not only to job stress but also to personal financial stress. This stress can lead people to make desperate decisions.

As a manager, one of your greatest responsibilities is to ensure the well-being of your employees. If you discover an employee is faced with an exceptionally difficult set of circumstances, engage that employee immediately and provide, at a minimum, moral support. Look to provide any available assistance, such as an EAP (Employee Assistance Plan), or even some time off. Reassure the employee and provide encouragement as well as a safe place to listen.

As each of us views the difficulty we are under, never believe that your life or the life of another is no longer worth living. While the stress appears crushing, it can be managed. Help can be had and the choice to live should be made. Great resources can be found at SAVE.org

While I didn't know David Kellermann, or his family, I remember them in my thoughts and prayers, and ask you to do the same. If you know someone who is suffering, offer them any help you can. Take all signs or warnings of suicide seriously and get help!

Life is worth living and protecting!

Many thanks to "Dollars and Sense," as it was the inspiration for this article.