It's amazing how someone's words can wield so much power - no matter how indeliberate their intent was.
I've been accused of being insensitive and even downright mean - - for no other reason than the words that came out of my mouth. And I took responsibility for that. I apologized. Maybe after some hardheaded denial, I accepted fault. But I got there. Sometimes I was forgiven, sometimes not. It's about learning. It's a part of life. It goes on.
But sometimes, just by merely existing, you can affect someone in a truly positive way, simply by being REAL.
That to me, is what life is about!
Case in point, I have a christian coworker whom I respect very much. Her quiet dignity comes to mind when I think of her. She has what I consider the definition of integrity - to maintain a steadfast core of ethics, despite the obstacles in your path, you continue to live by a consistent code of being.
So I run into her today, in the copy room, we say our normal hellos. Make small talk. I ask her how she's doing. Really, how is she?
She smiles her usual smile. Tells me she's doing good - really good. Then pauses.
"Can I tell you something, Teresa?" she asks.
"Of course." I say.
"You know, you said something to me once that I will never forget. Right there, in that corner of the hallway, you said something that changed me'.
I'm taken aback, not quite sure what to think, but curious for her to continue on.
"You told me that I have a strength of character which you admire" she smiled shyly.
"That's right, I remember" I say.
"Those words gave me strength that day and I carry that strength with me, even now".
Wow. I am humbled by her words.
As she was so effected by mine,
as am I so effected by hers.
It's days like this where you can learn a lot about yourself, about others. Where you can discover a new found respect for the strength of the human spirit.
I thank God for days like these.
