Kindness

Growing up, I spent a lot of time in the lobby of DeLong Sportswear. My mother worked as a secretary there until it closed when I was in middle school. She spent most of her time typing, but whenever someone walked through the front doors, you can bet she knew who they were.

My mom knew the names of every single person that worked in or around DeLong. She always made it a priority to ask the UPS man how his day was going or how his wife was doing. She looked forward to talking to the employees as they left the building. Most importantly, my mother always smiled.

I know how important it is to smile at each and every person that walks past you in the halls. I know what it feels like to be the girl who's too afraid to look up because she's afraid she'll break down and cry. Maybe the quiet boy walking towards you is having the worst day, but he's too scared to tell anyone. If someone had taken the time to look at me and smile when I was upset...I can't even explain how much that would have changed my day. A simple smile has the power of a thousand words.

We have to find it in ourselves to step up and be the kindest people we can be. If this means you strive to smile at each and every student that passes you in the hall tomorrow, do it. Do it for the sad girl moping through the halls. Do it for the shy boy who's too scared to stand up for himself. Do it for you.

I do it because I know my mom is looking down on me smiling at the strong, happy young lady she taught me to be, and honestly...that's all I need.

(: