A few years ago, I was at an amusement park, having a fantastic time. Upon arriving at one of my favorite rides, I noticed a little girl crying. Normally, I would just get on the ride, and hope that someone else looks after the little girl. However, this girl looked very distraught. Tears were streaking down her face as I walked towards the little girl, gave her my hand, and led her to the front office, in a hope to find her mother. Over an hour passed with numerous PA announcements. But no one came. Tension filled the air, stifling even the ability to breathe. The clock started to click, louder and louder. Countless times, the door opened, drawing everyone’s eye, only to find it was not the girl’s mother. Finally after two and a half hours of misery for this little girl, her mother came in, crying so hard, out of happiness of finding her little girl. The gratitude of the mother to me for helping her find her baby girl was unbearable to watch, without a tear coming to my eye. When it was time for them to go, the little girl came up and hugged me, and the happiness and thanks expressed by the little girl in that hug, stayed with me for a very long time.
By noticing the way this little girl was crying, I was able to reunite mother and daughter after countless frantic hours, no doubt filled with worry and despair. I believe in observing the people around you. By doing this, one can create a more caring and generous world. I could have walked right past this girl, and I wouldn’t have thought twice about it throughout the day. However, I stopped, and by doing this simple action, I created a new belief for myself, and hopefully for others who witnessed the account. Much can be accomplished by little actions. By simply noticing others, you can make someone’s day; whether it be a smile to someone who looks down, or taking a little girl’s hand, and leading her home. By ignoring these signs, we are really just ignoring ourselves, knowing deep down, that we should stop, or listen, resulting in a better being for you, and the one you have helped. Take the time to notice, and by noticing, you are helping.