Teresa's Hidden Treasures

As I spoke to the Texas Insurance Association tonight about having a life of purpose, I mentioned about the significance of the kind word and how a small act of kindness will always make a big impact whether we might ever know it or not.  I asked when the last time was that they had sincerely walked up and asked someone, “How are YOU today” and waited for a response.

I mentioned how that in the horrible times we had last year, only TWO people came up and asked me how I was…they all inquired about the  business but only two asked about me.  I remembered those two because they stood out to me having been so significant.

I challenged them, as I do to you, to take time every day and ask someone how they are and you will be amazed at how that small act of concern will leave the person’s day a little lighter. I returned to my seat and a woman at my table mentioned that at her hair salon was a quiet lady that she did not know but she knew her husband had recently passed so she got her address and sent her a card. A CARD.

Remember those?

The lady was so moved that the next time she saw her there she told her how much that single card had meant since she was so timid and had few friends. They are now very close friends and as the title states…all friends were once strangers. Make the effort to make a new friend each day, send a card, ask about their being, and enjoy the wonderful feeling you give and receive when you do!

Browsing through the local stores and seeing all the aisles of candy and Halloween decorations brings many childhood memories.  I always looked forward to the one or two houses on the street with the retired grandparents who had the BEST quality candy and always gave LOTS of it! I planned for weeks about just the right outfit…trendy but unique that is still my company motto today.  It also saddened me though to realize how so many children are missing out on those wonderful memories due to the evil and unsafe threats in our neighborhoods today and it made me a little sad.

Though I have no children, I can imagine that parents must make a hard choice as to only go to certain homes or to only visit church fairs or malls to avoid the issues all together.  I am amazed how big Halloween has become with costumes, props, decorations, home decor pieces, and much more. In the gift business, we have seen a sharp upswing in Halloween gifts from grandparents sending to the grandchildren to companies sending Halloween gifts to clients. I think the holiday is here to stay in a big way, but I hope as it grows, we are able to get back to a safe place our kids can enjoy the parties, costumes, and neighborhood treats. If you can host or sponsor a local event in your area or on your block, make the effort to do so and let’s make a difference one neighborhood at a time!