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Like in the movie, It’s a Wonderful Life,” we often don’t know the impact of our presence. This could be with work, family or friends. Sometimes it’s just small and special.

I missed seeing Christine’s smiling face at the Residence Inn this Thanksgiving morning.  She greeted us multiple times during our annual visit to State College relatives. The first year, she invited guests to write what they were grateful for on cut-outs of autumn leaves and vegetables and posted them in the eating area. I loved this! So much so that I took a photo.

Then she remembered us after that, bringing out the gratitude messages that she saved.

When I didn’t see Christine this Thanksgiving morning, I was going to dig out her photo and ask about her at the front desk. I was a bit worried. To my happy surprise, she was there on Friday morning and greeted me with a hug like family.  She had the holiday off. Good for her!

We reminisced a bit about the past gratitude project, then she disappeared into the kitchen for a bit while I talked to a longer-term resident she befriended.  Christine came back with a photo of the two of us on her phone and shared that the Thanksgiving gratitude messages were still hanging up back in the kitchen. How cool!

I asked how she was doing, and with a bright smile, she said “awesome.” I told her, of course, that is because her attitude is awesome.  Christine went on to say she loves her job, and meeting the people is what makes it special. That reminded me of why I love my work….as a career counselor I get to help others find something they might love…or at least like.

May this little holiday story remind us that we touch everyone we come into contact with. May we remember to share warmth and kindness with our presence and with our actions.  And may this positive energy help spread light during dark times.

“Each man’s life touches another.” It’s a Wonderful Life