The Number that Never Changes...By: Omar Zarka
He was right; having a good friend for over fifty years is
impressive. I was attending a dinner in which a well-respected scholar
and professor was being recognized for his accomplishments. Instead of
focusing on himself and his journey, he spent his entire speech thanking
the numerous
individuals that impacted
his life. As he reflected on his
experience, he said one of the most rewarding gestures he ever received
had been from a former student going out of his way to
find the
professor’s contact information to contact him and thank him for the
time and effort he put into his education. I found it peculiar that
after several decades of many accomplishments, friends and family, one
of the most rewarding gestures the professor received was a thank you.
It’s true though. Sometimes, after trying so hard and going out of
our way to help someone, all it takes is two words—thank you—to start
the rush of accomplishment and success. In fact, it happens
all the time
at
work and school when we get a pat-on-the-back for the job-well-done
on a project or a paper.
Think
back to the last time you caught a glimpse of yourself in the mirror
when you were stressed. Did you look approachable? What message did
you send to others around you with your distressed facial expressions?
What type of reaction did your family or co-workers have when they
engaged with you while you were in such a state? Ever ponder the
misunderstandings that may have arisen because your friend or spouse
interpreted your frustration as directed towards them? Let us reflect
on the power of the smile not only in the face of adversity, but also
during prosperity.
