The "Little" Moments
We will have those little moments where we remember so much more than anyone else. Maybe it was a compliment given by a stranger or someone we truly respect. Or that simple gesture that someone did when we were having a difficult time.
But think of the little moments you could have made in other people's lives. It doesn't have to cost much money or take significant work. It may feel inconsequential to you, but it could mean the world to them.
I wonder if I created any of these moments as a mentor to grade school kids.
As a photographer, I have the opportunity to create so many little memories. Whether that is offering to take a family photo while I’m out for walk or sneaking a photo of someone I know at a game. It only takes me a few seconds to get a professional photo of them, but it creates so much joy (though, I do need to value myself better as a photographer).
It could be as positive as it is negative. When someone you respect says you can do anything can be equally as negative as someone who says you can't do it.
Some little moments that greatly affected my life:
The middle school science teacher who thought I needed glasses and took action
Without glasses, I’m not sure I would be where I am now.
Also, it took that long for someone to notice?!
7th grade middle school teacher teaching that algebra is easy, you just have to solve for x
This teacher unknowingly taught me the most memorable lesson I learned in grade school
I continue to think about this when looking at problems
Years ago, after some employees were laid off, I overheard one of those colleagues state their secret phrase to get into their account as "No good deed goes unpunished". It was one of the most emotional moments I have ever experienced, particularly since I just started my job a few months prior, and I didn't have many responsibilities. Unlike many of those who were laid off, I didn't have a family to support.
I’m not one to ruminate on things often, and my memory isn’t the best for stuff I don’t find meaningful. However, it is interesting how such small moments greatly affected my life.