Page 85 of Eco-Activist's Mountain Men
As for me, I’m just… thrilled. A few days ago, I was dreading my future—imagining myself trapped in academia, one of thosegray old professors who never left the ivory tower, droning on about theories they only half understood. The very type I’ve always despised.
Now everything’s different. I’m a co-owner in a forestry business making a tangible difference. Doing something real. Positive. My fellow owners are the four people I’ve come to love and respect most. I have a career and a family, all rolled into one. What more could I want?
It still amazes me how much life can change in a single day. Yesterday, we were standing with that banner, watching Collier’s helicopter bear down on us, wondering what would happen next. Now, we’re co-owners of Mackenzie Forestry Services and about to hold our first board meeting.
“It’s a lovely day,” Luna announces. “Let’s do it in the yard.”
We all agree, so the five of us pile out with coffee mugs and settle at the long picnic table. At the last second, I dash back to grab a pad and pen. If we’re going to be serious about this, we should document decisions. I flip to a fresh sheet, uncap my pen, and wait.
“Okay, okay, let’s bring this meeting to order, you clueless no-hopes,” Luna says with mock authority.
Toby pops up and salutes like he’s in a marching band. Luna smacks his arm. “Sit down and try to act normal for once, you idiot.”
We laugh, but underneath the humor, there’s weight. This is real. We’re responsible now—no more hiding behind Pat’s orders. The decisions are ours.
“Right,” Luna continues. “First things first. Jack, you have the most experience. You know how to talk to business people. You should be the CEO—Chief Executive Officer, Toby. The guy in charge.”
“Thank you, Luna, but I’m not a complete moron,” Toby mutters.
“Well, that’s a pleasant surprise.” She smirks. “Anyway—Jack as CEO. Agreed?”
We all nod.
“You good with that, Jack?”
He hesitates, then nods. “Yeah. I worked alongside Pat for years. I think I can handle it.”
“You can,” Luna says firmly. “We’ll support you.”
I jot it down: Jack, CEO.
“Toby, you’re next.”
“Huh?” He looks up, feigning confusion.
“Grow up. You act like an idiot, but you’re smarter than you let on. You should take a strategic role. How about Chief Production Officer? You’ll handle product strategy, keep us delivering what we promise, and represent us to customers.”
“Oh, Jesus.” His grin falters. “I mean… yeah. Okay. What about the trucks?”
“Keep doing that, too. This is about responsibilities, not just titles.”
Luke speaks up, steady and certain. “He’d be perfect for it.”
“Gee, thanks, man,” Toby says, slapping Luke on the back.
I note it: Toby, Chief Production Officer.
“And Luke,” Luna continues. “No one can do what you do. You’re COO—Chief Operating Officer. Jack decides what, you figure out how. You’ll keep this place running.”
Luke nods. “Got it.”
I frown slightly. “How does that differ from Toby’s role?”
“Good question, sweetie,” Luna says with a smile. “Toby’s big picture. Customers, strategy, external. Luke’s boots on the ground, getting it done. Make sense?”
“Yes,” I say, relieved. “Much clearer.”
“Eric,” Toby pipes up. “What about the Doc?”
