Radiant Smile

"You will find, as you look back upon your life,

that the moments that stand out are the

moments when you have done things for others."

I have always found that I am happiest when I am giving of myself to others. Right now my main focus is to give all that I can to Little Chick and to seize any opportunity the day may bring to be helpful and kind to someone else. As I have mentioned before, I would like my daughter to learn from my example to be considerate and to have compassion for her peers.

There are so many occasions that arise throughout each day that we can choose to do something thoughtful. It is easy to let these moments slide due to our busy schedules. I am also guilty of missing certain opportunities to do a kind gesture for someone. However, I am trying to make myself conscientious enough so that when they do make themselves present, I do something about them.

One thing my father taught me was to beam a smile when I walk into a room, greet people with a warm hello, and to always say a huge thank you when someone does something for me. I never really realized how often I do this until Little Chick and I were in the deli the other day. The woman behind the baked goods counter asked me if Little Chick could pick out a cookie and I said yes. My daughter walked over to the counter and with a large smile she said, "Good morning, nice lady!" It was like watching my Dad walk into a room all over again carrying this ever present light. The woman handed her a cookie and she immediately said, "Thank you so much, that is so nice!" Everyone was smiling, including myself. Although it was something so small, Little Chick was able to light up a room and spread some smiles all around!

There are big things and tiny ones that we all can do throughout our days to bring a little joy to someone else. Obviously my Dad's friendliness and radiant smile has left a lasting impression in my life. It did not cost anything nor did it take up any extra time out of his day. What it did do was make a positive difference in the generations following him.