Just shy of two years ago, I committed to this blog and posted my first daily thought, point to ponder and soulful reflection.
It was about a neighbor who isn’t aware of the impact he has on our lives. He is a staple in our neighborhood and when the nice weather arrives, if he’s not sitting outside in his comfy chair, taking in the fresh air, the day is not the same. When we walk or drive by, his wave is filled with warmth and friendliness. We have come to depend on him to lift our spirits and bring a smile to our faces.
Some people are just like that – and they aren’t even cognizant of how their mere presence or interactions impact others. It’s who they are, a natural part of their personality that takes no effort or intention. And we all benefit.
As an introverted extrovert who is so close on the Myers Briggs Personality Test line, a few degrees more toward introvert (so accurate, my friendliness a disguise), my what seems to be sometimes flamboyant personality is misleading. I’m more introvert than extrovert and my ‘what seem to be’ superficial interactions are actually meaningful and important to me. Who some would call strangers matter to me and make a difference in my life.
So tonight, when one of the regular Rite-Aid cashiers shared that her last day would be Saturday, I was crushed.
This is a woman who I was convinced hated me for years, only to have grown close with in the past three. I sent holiday cards, stopped in when my days were rough and always left with my spirits lifted and a smile on my face. Thanks to her.
She’s retiring – Anita. And I’m very happy for her. But I’m sad that I’ll no longer see her when I run my errands. Going to that store was a decision – a choice I made because of the people I was attached to.
When I learned she was retiring, I made sure to revisit and send her off with a personal gift. I’m so sad for me, so happy for her. The tears that filled our eyes was not surprising, yet surprising. It was sad, yet happy.
Take a moment to think about your casual dalliances who you may take for granted – then, remove them from your life.
I’m sure you’ll feel the loss, miss the connection you thought was superficially shared. Then realize that the little loss – will have a big impact.
Happy retirement, my friend, Anita. You’ll be missed, always.
Take no one, or nothing, for granted. It’s astounding how these little losses, have such a big impact.
❤️