Whether we know it or not, we all impact the lives of those around us. Obviously we have an impact on those that are close to us but in many cases we also impact the lives of those that we simply come in contact with. I was reminded of this in two different occasions within the past week or so. In reflecting back on this I can only hope (I like to think I’m doing a good job at it) that I’m creating a positive impact on those around me.
The event that first reminded me of this is a tragic one. An acquaintance that I played soccer with suddenly passed away just recently at the young age of 34. I call him an acquaintance but I wish I could have called him a friend…I just didn’t have a chance to get to know him better as we had met not too long ago. He was a great guy, always smiling and laughing even with his competitive nature on the field. He had that presence about him that just glowed with positive energy. It was always a joy to see him out there and joke around before, during, and after our games. Previous to hearing the news that day I was enjoying myself, thinking about a new client I had picked up, I was actually taking a walk in the rain because it felt cleansing at the time. When I got home however I heard the news and it immediately took all the wind out of my sails. I was devastated. How could such a great person leave us so suddenly? And that’s when I went into one of my famous deep thoughts and pondering sessions…reflecting upon life, my life, how I’m living it and what I want to do with it.
As I said, he was a great presence to see out there. If I was this affected, I can only imagine how many other people were devastated by the news. As sad as that news was, it made me think that he really lived life the way it should be lived. He treated people well, he enjoyed life and people simply enjoyed being around him. He obviously touched the lives of countless people simply by existing. That is exactly how I want to live my life. I want to bring a smile to people’s faces simply by existing, by being me. I want my positive attitude and energy to rub off on them no matter what the circumstances. And I certainly want to find people like that to include in my life.
A few days later it was my birthday. I’ve been too swamped lately to let anyone know and was even out of town on the day of my birthday. Returning home I saw no less than a couple dozen messages from people wishing me a happy birthday. Maybe I am doing something right…
So here we are…rats in the rat race. Dealing with a financial crisis from hell. Dealing with the craziness of everyday life. We don’t have to be those rats though. We can be like Jody, the man that could make you smile simply by walking by you. It’s easy to forget that we touch other people’s lives every day. Sometimes you come across someone that immediately makes you feel good about yourself and about life. Let us all strive to be that person.
