As the pace and fullness of modern life
serve to isolate us from one another, the contact we do share becomes vastly
more significant. We unconsciously absorb each other’s energy, adopting the
temperament of those with whom we share close quarters, and find ourselves
changed after the briefest encounters. Everything we do or say has the
potential to affect not only the individuals we live, work, and play with but
also those we’ve just met. Though we may never know the impact we have had or
the scope of our influence, accepting and understanding that our attitudes
and choices will affect others can help us remember to conduct ourselves with
grace at all times. When we seek always to be friendly, helpful, and
responsive, we effortlessly create an atmosphere around ourselves that is
both uplifting and inspiring.
Most people rarely give thought to the effect they have had or will have on
others. When we take a few moments to contemplate how our individual modes of
being affect the people we spend time with each day, we come one step closer
to seeing ourselves through the eyes of others. By asking ourselves whether
those we encounter walk away feeling appreciated, respected, and liked, we
can heighten our awareness of the effect we ultimately have. Something as simple
as a smile given freely can temporarily brighten a person’s entire world. Our
value-driven conduct may inspire others to consider whether their own lives
are reflective of their values. A word of advice can help others see life in
an entirely new fashion. And small gestures of kindness can even prove to
those embittered by the world that goodness still exists. By simply being
ourselves, we influence other’s lives in both subtle and life-altering ways.
To ensure that the effect we have is positive, we must strive to stay true to
ourselves while realizing that it is the demeanor we project and not the
quality of our wondrous inner landscapes that people see. Thus, as we
interact with others, how we behave can be as important as who we are. If we
project our passion for life, our warmth, and our tolerance in our facial
features, voice, and choice of words, every person who enters our circle of
influence will leave our presence feeling at peace with themselves and with
us. You never know whose life you are affecting, big or small. Try to
remember this as you go out into the world each day.
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