Pre New Year's Resolution (since we all know NYRs are often forgotten and rarely kept)

“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” Leo Buscaglia

Thanksgiving is hands down my favorite holiday. I thoroughly enjoy stuffing myself to the full extent that an elastic waistband will allow. I love coming together with my family to share stories from the past year and memories from the past twenty years. I like watching the Lions play, even though they almost always lose. Most of all, I adore the cheesy tradition that makes everyone else groan- sharing what we are thankful for.

I worked in retail and waited tables for years during high school and college, more years than most could tolerate. Although I had a great time, I learned that it is human nature to whine and complain. Often. The window displays were too provacative. The cook forgot to leave off the tomatoes. The pajamas don't come in an XXL. The line was way too long. The table was too short.

What is rare, in those situations and in life, is for people to do the opposite. Every now and then, customers would let me share moments with them. I cherished these little gems- a shared smile, a laugh at one of my silly jokes, a kind word of appreciation for my work. I began to look for these moments in my everyday life, and I was delighted to find that they were everywhere. I just hadn't been looking for them before.

I want to spend the rest of my life looking. I am so blessed. I have a husband, family, friends, a job, and a life that are all incredible beyond words. I have countless moments of wonderful if I just make the time and effort to look for them.

I try to stretch Thanksgiving as long as I can (my husband enjoys this in the form of cranberry pork chops, stuffing, and green bean casserole). This blog will be my yearlong Thanksgiving. Even if no one else ever reads this, I want to sit down each and every day this year to recognize something that made me laugh or smile or touched my heart. People will make my day if I just let them.

If you are reading this, let me try to make your day. I want to inspire you, to giggle with you, to grin with you, to learn with you, to grow with you, and to share with you. Keep reading, and leave me a note or a quote so I know you're out there :).

Comments

Anonymous said…
Jessi! First of all, I miss you and second, I love your blog. What a great idea. I totally agree about those somewhat scarce but great moments when you connect with someone while working in public service. I've somehow managed to mainly remember those moments and forget most of the bad ones. And to have someone express that type of moment everyday is awesome! I also miss our Pistons Parties! Let me know if you make it to Chicago. Keep up the great work and say hi to Tom!

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