When I was home a month or so ago, I came across some old pictures (hence the Glamour Shots). As I looked at one of them, I realized that I could actually remember going to get that picture taken.
I remember loving the yellow dress, even if the elastic did make red indents on my stomach.
I remember riding the escalator to the photo studio at the mall.
I remember the feel of rough green “grass” underneath my knees.
I remember the photographer’s commands (tilt your head, put your hands on your knees, right on left, your other right, look at me, don’t look over there, look at me, say cheese, snap).
It was weird to me that I remembered all of that. But I’ve found that most of my childhood memories are random moments. Few involve life-changing experiences.
But I think it’s those random moments that form life change.
And I think that should make me cautious. Cautious because it’s the little things I say and do that people will remember.
If I make a snide, hurtful comment to someone, they will remember that. They will remember my ridicule, my thoughtless words, far beyond any memory I have of those moments.
So I will strive for random moments that bring a smile. A silly note, a whispered encouragement. A hug, a helping hand. A quick phone call, a surprise visit. A smile, a laugh.
I will learn to sweat the small stuff.
Good advice, Brandy…though like most good advice, it’s easier said than done. Unfortunately, I can think of a million things I’ve done in the past that I will be remembered for–things I’m ashamed of or wish I could do over. Yet it’s hard to count on one hand the positive things that I would like to be lasting memories.