A few days ago, I had the opportunity to talk with a lady whom I don't know very well. We discovered we had much in common, and I was grateful for the chance to get to know her better. In the course of our conversation, she thanked me (several times) for writing her at the time of her mother's death.
I had nearly forgotten having sent her some cards at that time. I do remember, though, empathizing with her at losing a beloved parent.
This incident set me to wondering, would this woman have made the time to talk with me if I hadn't sent the cards. I don't know. But those cards smoothed the way to what I hope will become a sweet friendship.
Certainly, sending a card is not a big thing. It won't cure the common cold, make politicians stop lying, or promote world peace. But it made a difference, albeit a small one, in this woman's life. In turn, she made a difference in mine with our conversation.
This I know for sure: small words and acts can have long-reaching effects.
It may not cure the common cold, but laughter (and it's close cousin love) is the best medicine. It may not stop politicians from lying, but it might encourage them to be a little more truthful (at least on one subject). Every person who feels loved feels more peace, and if that doesn't promote world peace then I've never been around someone with road rage.
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