It's The Little Things

What is it about our American culture that puts such a value on "the big things?" You know, the newest car, the house with 4 bathrooms, the investment account that allows you to live more extravagantly after you retire than you did while you were working?

I don't have an answer for this question.

But I was just reminded that no matter what we put on our lifetime wish lists, for most of us "success" comes down to the surprising meaningfulness of "the little things."

This morning, I went out to the front to take some photos for our Facebook page, and was greeted by one of our newest volunteers - his genuine excitement about working here literally pushed his shoulders back and escaped through the biggest smile I've seen in a long time. It was the kind of smile that made me not only smile back, but stop and feel the shared happiness. Hours later, the corners of my mouth still turn up.

Not too long after that, I went to the counter to get a coffee, and was met by one of our gregarious adult volunteers who, without skipping a beat, said "Hey Toots!" Why that made me feel so good, I can't explain, but it did and both of us knew it.

Next, one of our regulars asked if he could hand me a donation envelope. "It's not much," he said. I tried sharing how important each and every contribution is to the Commons. And truly that is the case. His envelope will help us keep programs going just a little longer, and that's enough when you live in the moment.

The volunteer that just brought a sample of his famous roast beef recipe, the community partner that just sent us some grant funds we were hoping for, the person who shared that "it's not often you find the ideal concepts you think will strengthen a community actually put into action...but I felt it when I walked in this morning." It's these "little things" that have such great meaning here at The Commons.

This holiday season, we wish you the eyes to see such "little things" as they show up in your life. Come share the stories with us. The buzz is even better than the coffee!

Judy
Communications and Programs Coordinator
South Whidbey Commons