The other day, I was out mowing my lawn.
Hair was in a messy ponytail, wearing a faded t-shirt and leggings, no make-up on.
I hadn't showered. Grass-stained tennis shoes on my feet.
A family walked by. There was a little boy with them, maybe six or seven years old.
I had my headphones in and was focusing on getting through the grass when I saw movement from the corner of my eye.
The little boy was standing next to me, holding something in his hand.
It was a dandelion.
He held it out to me as I took my headphones out of my ears so I could acknowledge him.
"I just wanted to give this to you. You look really nice. Have a great day!"
Then he was off, running to catch up to his family. I smiled at them and waved.
And stood there for a minute, lost in thought.
That little boy had an entirely different view of me than the one I had in my head that morning.
We go about our lives, doing our best to keep things together, some days just struggling to keep our heads above water.
And from the outside looking in, other people are inspired by our strength, striving to be like us, impressed by our ability to get stuff done and still smile most of the time.
Think about a moment in your life where someone said or did something that changed the course of your day, or even your life.
Did you tell them about it?
Did you thank them for their words or actions that helped you?
Did you walk up to them and give them a dandelion just because their presence brightened your day?
Maybe some of you did. But most probably didn't.
If only we did more often.
If only we walked up to each other and expressed that gratitude.
The awareness of the impact we have on others could be a pretty powerful force.
I'm pretty sure our world would be a significantly happier place.
So next time someone does something that inspires you, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, acknowledge it.
Say thank you. Hand them that dandelion.
Make them smile.
And walk away knowing that you inspire others too...
Sometimes without even being aware you are doing it.
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