Sadly, I think a very human tendency is to judge. We get into habits of people watching and noticing and…seeing what WE think is. Well, I LOVE situations that challenge any moment of judgement.

My husband and I were stopping to get gas and an attendant was walking up. An older man with long, straggly, grey hair, long beard, tattoos, huge ear gages, lots of jewelry and leather bracelets…he looked like an older member of a biker gang or something. I wasn’t sure how gruff or what temperament we would get. He approached the car. I instantly said, “How are you doing?” He replied optimistically, “No problems!” I smiled, “Wow. [I quickly looked at his name tag] Bronson, where did this attitude come from?” He said, “My grandfather once told me, “Happiness is a choice.” Now I have had a hell of a life, full of trouble. I finally woke up one day and thought that maybe I should take my grandfather’s advice and try happiness. I kept trying and trying until it stuck. I found happiness is a choice.” He beamed and kept at his work.

I quickly shuffled through my purse and pulled out one of my favorite “thoughtful” cards and wrote a little note to our new gas attendant & expressed our gratitude for his great attitude. He genuinely took the card with a smile.

It was such a wonderful moment of connection with a stranger.

I LOVE and appreciate those moments that continually challenge us to be open and just love.

Connection is that gift that is always available—if we take the time to open the door to another.

May we always seek the gifts that are available in another.

“Connecting with others gives us a sense of inclusion, connection, interaction, safety, and community. Your vibe attracts your tribe, so if you want to attract positive and healthy relationships, be one! Staying connected and getting reconnected feeds the flow of goodness which empowers our humanity.”
― Susan C. Young

“I believe connection is needed more today than ever. When we allow ourselves to listen with our hearts we are then able to be truly present.” 
― Debbie Payne

“Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.” – Mother Teresa

I hope this little story of connection makes you smile and brings a little happiness to your day.

Connect. Love. Share a smile. Make a friend. Be a gift to someone’s day.

-xoxo H