I’ll admit. I can be the competitive of sorts. Let me rephrase: I’m extremely comeptitive. When I was little, I grew up with two older brothers. Can you blame me? If I even wanted the SLIGHTEST chance of ever playing ping pong, riding in the boat, or being involved in any household games I had to learn to be good. π
So, when I stepped out of my car to deliver my package at UPS, and I saw the woman to my left rushing in to beat me to the door, yes….as silly as it sounds, I rushed in too. We’ve all done it (so don’t judge!) π Anyway, she beat me. And the entire time I was in UPS delivering my package, I was sour about it. Following my delivery to UPS, I also had to go to the Post Office.
But as I stepped out of my car for the second time, prepared to rush into another group of “competitive deliverers,” something else happened. The man who had made it just before me to the door waited. He waited for me to gather my things, lock my vehicle and enter the Post Office as he held the door for me. And what’s more than that, he even let me stand ahead of him in line.
You know the saying “Pay It Forward”…it worked. His simple gesture, an act that he probably didn’t even think twice about, moved me. It truly made my day and made me rethink my actions for the rest of the day. In addition, it made me feel petty and childish for acting the way I did at UPS.
I know we’re human, and we make mistakes. It’s Christmas season, and like most of you, I spend the few spare minutes that I have in my day, rushing around to find the “perfect gift” for those that I love. And in the process, I find myself honking at people, racing others into the UPS store, and probably other unthoughtful things that I’m not even conscious of.
The man at the Post Office has the right idea. It IS Christmas. And this time of year is filled with lots of happiness…and unfortunately, lots of sadness too. There are people who are sick, alone, and without a dime to their name. So, thanks to him, I was reminded to be more careful of my actions and to do the little things that may make a difference in someone’s life, even if it’s holding the door.
It’s so easy to get caught up in being competitive, or selfish. Let’s all do our best to be kind instead and I think this Christmas season will be a whole lot better for everyone. π π π
So, I started decorating my tree tonight. ONE ornament. I suppose it’s better than none. π It’s a start….and a reminder to be thoughtful, patient, and selfless during Christmas.
Happy Holidays!
Catherine
