I am…different. I know it.

What makes us tick? What makes you and me different, alike and…unique? Actually, I think special is a better descriptor. We are all special. We all have unique gifts. Unique habits(some more irritating than others-was that my wife and kids talking right there?lol!).

Friendships, relationships…they can be tough. Learning to adjust, get along can be very difficult. Why? Well, I could name a few reasons-just my opinion-with poor listening being near the top. Oh, how about being selfish and not putting the other person first? OUCH! Is this striking a nerve? I hope so.

There is so much discord in our world today. We all want to be first, better, living our best life, etc. We all want to get ahead. Ok, I know, I am preaching. However, I think this is one sermon that needs to be preached: we need to smile more. Even to, wait for it…strangers! There, I said it. Why is it so hard to smile? To be kind? To say, “hello, how are you today”? The whole “random acts of kindness thing” well, it’s a thing! It works. Actually, it’s kind of sad.

Here is my challenge to you for the next week-just give me one week-the next time your in your favorite coffee shop, or in line at the drive thru, pay for the person behind you. They’ll be completely shocked…and they’ll give you a genuine, heartfelt smile. Yes, you may have to explain to them that what you are doing is, in fact, a random act of kindness, but they’ll really appreciate it. Then ask them to pay it forward. Go ahead. Step out of your comfort zone(that’s where growth occurs anyways) and give it a try. You just never know what kind of impact you may have on another’s life.

Well, there it is. My secret sauce; smile, be kind and love people. 😊

Be well,

Jeff