Everything We Do Really Does Matter

Recently, I had a memorable experience at the grocery store, of all places! It was not the store I typically shop at, as it's about 20 minutes from my house, however on this particular day, it was conveniently located on my way home from an appointment. It was the store's busiest day and time of the week so there were at least 8-10 people working at the deli counter. I pushed the button for my number that would determine when it would be my turn to order and fortunately, there were quite a few people ahead of me so I was forced to wait.

As I stood there, I watched all the employees busy at work but only one stood out, clearly ready to fulfill the true role of the job. Only one was there to serve. If I had to guess, he was probably somewhere in his late 50's or early 60's and I couldn't help but stare at him as he worked. I quickly motioned to my children as they wandered the produce aisle, close-by. When they were at my side, I whispered to them, "Just watch." I knew they would pick this guy out just as quickly as I did.

He looked each of his customers in the eye. He smiled so sincerely that anyone he waited on knew, his only mission for that moment was to make them happy. He moved quickly, respectful of his customers' time and he asked each of them cheerfully, "How can I serve you?" He exuded an inner happiness and joy that just made you smile watching him. When each customer said thank you at the close of their order, he took the extra time to stop everything and thoughtfully and with intention, say, "Thank you. It's been my pleasure to serve you."

As I watched, none of the other employees were rude or disrespectful, they all were doing their jobs with effort but only one was working a mission, not a job. I secretly hoped when it was my turn, I would have the privilege of being his customer. Sure enough, it was him who called my number.

What makes some people use their job as a means to just a paycheck and others to use their job as a means to make the world a better place for themselves and those around them?

It was amazing how his energy and attitude rubbed off on both my children and I. In his own small way, he shined his bright light on each and every person he came into contact with and it was an honor to watch the effect he had on each of his customers.

I know for my 15 year old son, my 10 year old daughter and I, the impact was beyond what he could have guessed. We talked about him the whole time we shopped and all the way home. Almost a month later, we are still using him as an example of who we choose to be each day. When my children or I are grouchy or frustrated, one of us will say, "Remember the guy at the grocery store. If he can choose to be that happy when he's serving people deli meat, you can choose to be happy, too!" Just thinking about him changes our attitude.

Consequently, when it's time for me to go grocery shopping, suddenly a 20 minute drive doesn't seem so bad.

Most of the time, we never know how much our actions have the ability to positively affect others. A choice, a smile, a compliment, an attitude, an action or a gift -- everything we do really does matter.