The other day, I took my sister out to breakfast before she had to leave for work. One of her coworkers had just passed, and since that was the day of his funeral (which she was unable to attend), she was visibly upset. While I was consoling her, a young girl who couldn’t have been older than 6 approached our table and hands my sister a lollipop.
Even reflecting on that moment gets me all teary-eyed and faklempt.
The topic is Barbara Streisand, talk amongst yourselves…
(Just kidding)
But anyway, the point is, this sweet little girl made my sister’s morning and she made my week. She made a kind, heartfelt gesture because my sister looked sad.
As I drove home, I couldn’t help but feel so deeply touched by this simple gesture, just because I was there as it happened. It got me to thinking about the impact that each of us could make on someone’s life.
Think of how many people you encounter every day. Now think about how you interact with them. Are you making a positive impact?
A few months ago, I realized that it doesn’t take a lot of effort to make someone smile. Usually, all you have to do is smile and make eye contact. Once I realized this, I made a goal to make someone smile every day.
It’s a really simple task, but the chemical reactions inherent in smiling are incredible.
Smile. Right now.
You just gave yourself a natural endorphine rush. It’s basically like the physiological equivalent of a happy pill.
Now think about sharing that with someone else.
Tell me the thought of that doesn’t make you feel good.
So next time, you’re merging in traffic, use your turn signal. Wait 10 seconds and hold the door for someone who’s walking in behind you. Call someone you care about just to say hello.
What are you doing to make the world a better place?
