Name: Katie Spiler
Category: High School
Dr. Parker’s Quote: Inspirational Advice for Daily Living
Smile to someone you don't know. . .it may make their day.
Vote for this essay
Forward to a friend
Essay:
A few years ago, I went through a rough time in my life. I felt isolated, yet was surrounded by positive, loving people. It did not matter what they said to me, or how they tried to help me, it did not improve my outlook on life. I was on the brink of doing something that I may have regretted, when one day, when I was waiting at my bus stop, an elderly man saw the look of displeasure on my face and approached me. He sat right beside me, and with a great smile on his face, started talking to me. Normally, I would have backed away from him and kept my distance, but something drew me closer to him. His smile was warm and inviting, and I felt an indescribable connection to him. He simply asked me how I was doing, and the sincere tone in his voice prompted me to express feelings that I did not even know I had. I ended up telling him all the terrible events that I had experienced throughout that year. I spoke about my parents splitting up and my wavering faith. For the duration of our talk his warm, caring smile remained. His demeanor relaxed me and I spoke at length about what troubled me. As we talked, his hand lightly rested on my shoulder; his physical connection meant more to me than he will ever know. Our talk motivated me to look at the world in a new light. I have not seen the man since I bumped into him that one day, but I do not think that I will ever forget him. He has truly changed my life. I believe that God sends people into our lives for reasons that may not always be evident to us at the time. Looking back on that day, I think that that man was sent to me to help me realize that I do have an impact on the lives of others even if I do not see it. I am reminded of his warm smile and encouraging words everyday as I wait for my bus, and this keeps me motivated to live my life to the fullest.
