A Few Words
Everybody contributes to our everyday enjoyment, or, lack thereof. You go to work and help contribute via product or service. You interact with family, friends and strangers. Often the interaction is positive. Often not. Sometimes the most meaningful impact of our contribution is felt by someone we will never meet. In a place you’ve never been.
None of us have ever met some of the most influential people who have ever lived. Ghandi, Hitler, Mother Theresa, Ghengis Khan. We’ve never met them but they have influenced our lives. For better or worse. Ripples in a pond. We don’t have any idea where they go. But, go they do.
A famous philosopher, ok me , once said that ” Every time you smile at a stranger or make someone laugh when they really need it, you potentially infect a thousand people. ” Prove me wrong if you like, but, I think I’ll keep believing it.
A couple of years ago I was invited to write an article. I hesitated because there’s always a possibility of rejection. I had never done anything like that. Even though most of the readers were friends, I had no idea how many others would have an opportunity to criticize. I found that every word in print is a way of baring your soul. The naked artist. Everybody can take a shot.
The response was very favorable,but you never know. If my first piece was panned, there wouldn’t have been a second. I’d like to think we would all have lost out.
I guess I’m saying we all need to take that microsecond to consider our contributions.If you don’t like what I/ we have to say, or the way we say it, I get it. Just please remember that you have the opportunity to infect a thousand people. One way or another.
My words today have that same potential impact. Hopefully in a happy way.
Fred Prout
Many years ago I ‘met’ Tiny Tim at Toronto Airport…he was in a hurry but he had a couple words for me…”Get out of my way” he said…..I was so touched.
(Naah, he was in a hurry, and he DID pass very close to me, but we were both struck mute by the enormity of the encounter……or something.)
Well said Fred. Thanks for all your contributions.
I always enjoy reading yours and others’ articles here. I will also keep believing. Thank you for taking the time and effort to share your thoughtful words with all of us. Sandy, on the waiting list.
Well said. Words have great impact. Use them wisely. As a teacher once said. You have two ears and one mouth. So…..listen twice as much as you speak.
Beautiful.
Good words, as usual, Fred. You have a gift and I thank you for sharing it. Best wishes. Rick
May your words infect a thousand people
in a friendly way. Thanks, Fred
I do not get the pleasure of reading enough of your thought and stories. And I can picture you telling them. Keep up the good work.
Thank you, Fred, for “contributing to our everyday enjoyment.” I enjoy everything you write.
I DO like what you have to say Fred, and the way you say it too!
Always makes me smile and sometimes it makes me reflect … in a good way.
Thank you!
Val