Monday, May 28, 2012

Heroes

"Every once in a while, someone comes into our life who 
changes us for the better and makes a lasting impact. 
We call these people heroes. . ."




I don't share this video to brag about how amazing my father was. He was one of the most humble people you would ever meet. I share this because my father is the perfect example of someone who was a hero to so many people, yet did so in small ways. You don't have to be flashy or do something big to be noticed. You don't have to risk your life. You have the ability to be a hero to someone by the small and simple things you do each day.

My heart goes out to all those heroes, especially those in the armed forces, who have risked and still do risk their lives each day to protect the freedoms we so frequently take for granted. Thank you for the sacrifices you have made!

Heroes come in all shapes and sizes.
Who will you be a hero for?

Sunday, May 20, 2012

Lessons Learned in Cincinnati


Recently, I had the opportunity to go to Cincinnati, Ohio for work to help at a booth for a conference. As my coworker and I were walking into the convention center on day two, we were greeted by one of the building staff members. He smiled his contagious smile and asked how we were. We responded with a simple “Good. How are you?”  His response surprised me. Amazingly, his smile got even bigger and he replied, “Blessed! Truly blessed!”

Now that may sound corny, but this guy was so sincere with his response that I couldn’t help but believe him and smile. I had expected, “Good. Thanks for asking.” It’s a common greeting that really means nothing anymore. This gentleman gave me an answer I couldn’t help but hear and personally respond to. He didn’t say just “good” or “fine.” He was feeling blessed and wanted to share that with everyone around him. He probably had no idea how contagious his attitude would be, but his response and overwhelming excitement will never be forgotten. What an awesome reminder that we really are truly blessed!

I had a similar experience with another lady that I met while there. She was a staff member at one of the restaurants we had eaten at a couple of times. The first time we went there, she was preparing the food orders and as we were leaving, she flashed her contagious smile and hollered at us with her fun accent, “Ya’ll have a Happy Mother’s Day! Don’t forget Sunday is Mother’s Day!” We talked to her the next day as we were waiting for our food. She shared her story about significant struggles in her personal and family life. I was amazed she could be so happy and caring. What a charming lady! She was determined to leave a lasting impact on the people she served food to. I can tell you, she was succeeding and loving every minute of it.

What an awesome experience. It was a good reminder that we may not be able to control the situations around us, but we can control our attitude and outlook on life. This man and woman provided me a service without meaning to or even realizing it.

It’s all in your attitude. What will yours be? If you stop to think about it, we really are all blessed.

Truly Blessed!