The other day my Chachen (uncle) called me asking for help with converting a PDF into a PowerPoint presentation. My Chachen is over 80 years old, and he's still working on PowerPoints and making presentations. I often talk about being inspired by Steve Jobs and the pioneers of Silicon Valley; however, it's only in my later years that I've learned to truly appreciate my family and the legacy they've crafted.
Ames International was a chocolate company started in 1987 by my Chachen, George Paulose, and his wife Susie Paulose. My father, Mathew Mathan, my mother, Kumari Kozhickal, and all my uncles, aunts, and even some of my cousins worked at this company. I have only known two CEOs personally my entire life: George Paulose and Amy Paulose. For decades, they have led this company through thick and thin.
Their example has taught me to always move forward, no matter the obstacle. There will be ups, there will be downs, but no matter what, you will weather the storm.
My father, Mathew Mathan, and my older brother, Manu Kurian, are two of the most dedicated, hardworking, genuine human beings I have ever had the opportunity to know. There is immense value in consistently showing up to work every day and giving it your all. Sometimes you might be underappreciated or overworked, but you never give less than 110 percent—you give ten percent more than everything you have. That is the example my father and brother have set for decades, and they continue to do so to this day.
Show up every day, don't show up for anyone but yourself, and if you show up, make sure you work damn hard—that's what they have taught me.
The final lesson I learned is from my Gracy Amma. To this day, in my cousin's house, there is a box cutter that belonged to her. This box cutter is a symbol of her tireless work, but above all else, there is one thing she always preached. My Gracy Amma and Papa taught me that no matter what you do, you must praise God first, and if you have Him in your heart—I can tell you this truthfully and wholeheartedly: No weapon formed against you shall prosper.
"No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment You shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is from Me," Says the Lord" (Isaiah 54:17).
As I reflect on these lessons from my family, I realize that true success isn't measured by technological innovation or market disruption alone. It's built on the foundation of unwavering dedication, resilient leadership, honest hard work, and deep faith. My family didn't make headlines in Silicon Valley, but they created something perhaps more valuable—a legacy of principles that withstand the test of time. When I help my 80-year-old Chachen with his PowerPoint, I'm not just providing tech support; I'm witnessing the continuation of a legacy that has shaped who I am today. These are the values I carry forward, honoring those who came before me while building something meaningful for those who will follow.
In the end, this is the most important presentation we can ever create—the one that shows how we've lived our lives according to the wisdom of those who loved us enough to teach us what truly matters.
Happy Easter!
Yours Truly,
Thomas Mathan