For weeks I have been pondering why I think Mr. Softee shines.

Those who tuned in for Friday's video heard the story about my six year old son.  Matthew figured out that rather than wait in anticipation of a visit from the ice cream man, he could simply request the his business card and then call the ice cream man on demand.  While true that I love Matthew's fearlessness, it is not the idea of on-demand ice cream that makes Mr. Softee shine.

And, certainly Mr. Softee doesn't shine because of his $3.00 Cherry Chill or his $2.00 soft serve ice cream cone.

No, what makes the ice cream man shine is his music.

The sound of Mr. Softee rounding the corner of any neighborhood, regardless of city or state is universal.  If you know not of what I speak, click here immediately.

Not only is the sound of Mr. Softee universal, it is universally loved.  This simple jingle conjurs up positive memories for virtually everyone who grew up hearing it.   

Here's one more thing.  People might universally love the jingle for Coca-Cola or Dr. Pepper, but those jingles don't hunt you down.

Not so much with Mr. Softee.  Inside, outside, blocks - even miles - away, kids have have radar that lets them know when Mr. Softee is anywhere within a four mile radius.  There is no hiding it.  You can try closing all the doors and windows, distracting them by turning up the radio, or enticing them with cartoons.  There ain't nothin' that's going to cut through those high pitched bells Mr. Softee's got going on.  Nothin'.

Yeah, Mr. Softee and his musical ploy shines.

Mr. Softee shines because his music masterfully demonstrates how to Create (Principle #2) a following.

Mr. Softee shines because he Realizes the Impact of Little Things (Principle #5).  Richard invested a small fortune in our backyard pool, but it' Mr. Softee's music and the promise of a $2.00 treat that really gets our kids really excited.

Mr. Softee shines because he is Relentlessly Passionate (Principle #8). Passionate about ice cream and relentless about selling it to kids - even when mom and dad are cringing at the sound of his bells.

But, most of all, Mr. Softee shines because he Spreads Shine (Principle #10).  His truck - music, ice cream, sprinkles, and all - is like sunshine on wheels.

Happy National Ice Cream Month!

Shining off until tomorrow...