I do not take sugar with my coffee. Usually, the sugar options come in something closed, such as a paper packet or a bowl with a lid. Yesterday was different. The two swizzle sticks presented the natural and refined. The presentation offered more than just sugar. It was an opportunity to admire the work behind the scenes. It was a window through which creativity and beauty could be shared. As we admired the presentation, I wanted to share my thoughts with the individuals who had made it possible. Ultimately, the best I could do was express gratitude for the service and the presentation.
I start today with a fresh appreciation of the importance each choice in life represents. There are times when I repeat the words left centuries ago; “In the end, does it really make a difference what anyone does?” (Ecclesiastes 3.9) Yesterday reminded me that my experiential answer is an empathic yes! The person who designed and executed the sugar swizzles had no idea that her/his actions created a fresh awareness of beauty and appreciation. My life was different because of their work. My view of the day ahead changed with the lesson life left with me. Their care made a difference to me then and now.
Life’s ripples start in a moment and never end. At our best, we create a wave that becomes a tsunami of goodness and care. It was never about us; it was always about the difference it made for others. At my worst, I suck the energy out of the moment, consuming it with my need to satisfy something within me. It is as if my actions replace the sweetness of hope with the bitterness of anger and frustration. The good news is that each ripple is an opportunity to learn, grow, and make new ripples.
There is an endless need for life’s sweetest gifts – relationship and hope. I can bring these to the moments I have. I can wrap every choice I make in wonder and awe. Each is an opportunity to care and make a difference.
