Nice IS nice.
So, I always seem to have a loooong list of self-improvement goals that I’m working toward. Get in shape is always on there. And, with the big 4-0 coming up this year, I have visions of being in the best shape of my life. Seriously. I dream of sporting a bikini (and I’m not talking about one of those with a skirt attached to the bottom!) and walking the full length of the dock without having to strategically drape a beach towel around my waist.
So what am I doing about it? I guess I’m just trying to find the right motivation. I mean, I’m a dedicated follower of The Biggest Loser and basically worship the ground my BTT (Best TV Trainer) Jillian Michaels works out on. And I’m completely in awe of the 350 pound contestants that lose 100 pounds overnight and can turn down a plate of Ding Dongs – just not inspired enough to get up off the couch and walk farther than the kitchen. See why this topic is ALWAYS on my list?
The other thing I’m working on is being nice. I’d like to think that I’m generally a nice person, but there are times when it’s really f*#%ing hard to be nice. Like when I’m driving down a four-lane road and stuck behind cars in each lane that are going 45 in a 55 mph zone. I can’t decide if these morons are unable to read speed limit signs or if they’re intentionally trapping me – forcing me to drive slower and pissing me off. Or like the sweet gal at Hollywood Video that other day. I set two movies and fudge bar (not mine – it was for Kelsey. Really!) on the counter. The gal takes the movies, rings me up and then says, “Oh. Did you also want the fudge bar?” No, you freaking idiot. I like to take things from all over your store and arrange them here on your counter – just to entertain myself while I’m waiting for you to figure how to use the freaking computer. Trying to be nice – but this is usually where I freak out. And my kids know what comes next. It’s embarrassing. But I’ve noticed that they’ve started to intervene. Kelsey jumped right in with, “Yes. We would like the fudge bar. Thank you.” as she pushes me towards the door. Tyler does the same thing, “It’s ok, mom. Calm down.”
But last week, I attended a presentation called “Rachel’s Challenge.” (http://www.ktvb.com/ktvb/youth/) It’s part of a nation-wide speaking tour that challenges students and adults to “start a chain reaction of kindness and compassion.” You see, Rachel is Rachel Joy Scott – the first student killed in the Columbine shootings on April 20, 1999. And after her death, her parents found an English essay that she had written that outlined her code for life. In her essay, she explained that “we can start a chain reaction with one simple act of kindness.”
Rachel’s father poured out his daughter’s message of hope and compassion for others. His first request – look for the best in others. So this has been my task for the week. Before getting upset or thinking the worst, I’ve tried to step back and respond in a more compassionate manner. Now I haven’t been 100% successful (and sometimes it’s challenging to find the best when dealing with a complete arrogant asshole) – but just one step at a time. One person can make a change – and change the world.
Before her death, Rachel touched hundreds of lives – stood up for kids being picked on in school and helped complete strangers on the street. Since her death, this young girl has changed millions of lives – including mine and I look forward to paying it forward. You see, being nice is nice.
