Update: A few weeks ago I mentioned about a beloved real estate agent in my speaking group who went on hiatus and then announced she would not renew her membership for whatever reason. She received so much love in return she came back to visit. Twice already. Her hugs and smiles do mean a lot to the group.

It's touching that we can always meet someone at one of life's intersections. It testifies that we can't always negotiate life alone. Each of us needs the caring power of all of us.

Feature Article: Random Acts of Kindness: Love in Action

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True Friends...

I got a call from my high school basketball buddy Edward the other day. He said, "If you come up in 2010, I'll pay for your ticket to our high school reunion."

I responded, "Are there any strings attached?"

"No."

"It's two years away. Is there any deadline for me to reply?"

"No."

"I'll let you know later."

This was a big surprise. Mainly because Edward has not worked in years. He wasn't born with a silver spoon nor did he become a real estate tycoon. He just makes do.

Over the years, he's seen the value of staying in touch with friends. Because of this he doesn't want me to miss out on these rare occasions to reconnect. It's an honor to be counted as his friend.

True friends who value you for who you are—are rare. That's someone who knows a lot about you and still likes you. Let's stay in touch with them.

Random Acts of Kindness: Love in Action

Dear Associate,

"How's Valerie?" I asked Kevin her husband. "I haven't seen her the past few weeks."

"She's a little discouraged. She wants to speak more but thinks our group is getting too large. She's taking some time off for herself," he replied.

How unfortunate. It's not like her. She's usually quite enthusiastic and upbeat. And she's normally the person who gets involved.

Let's see...

Valerie has been a member of this group for seven years. She has been an officer, a mentor and served this assembly in every capacity. She's also been involved with the group's social activities. You could say she is a one of the core members of the organization.

I've sat next to her to discover she adores praises, is somewhat of a perfectionist and feels lost without the security of her notes. She's also wound up a little tight and is a bit on the sensitive side. I try to make her laugh to help her unwind.

In the past couple of weeks she faced a few disappointments and we find her retreating for the moment. Hopefully not for long. So I looked upon this situation as an opportunity to express high regard for someone who's been there for many others.

I immediately went to a nearby store to pick out a "thinking of you" card. I found one with two cartoon dogs (YIKES! She likes cats) with smiling faces, hands locked together, wearing triangular party hats, and dancing to a happy tune.

The card's message inside read, "I'm so happy you're my buddy." I drew a quote bubble on top with the word "speaking" so the final message read, "I'm so happy you're my speaking buddy." Then I added "Best Wishes" underneath, signed it and then dropped it off at the post office.

This didn't take long. Ten minutes at most. I hoped this would cheer her up.

How about you?

Can you become the cheerleader for someone you know? Perhaps contribute a word of encouragement? Maybe spring for a surprise gift?

When a person feels appreciated—there's no telling what act of kindness he or she is capable of performing. And that kindness gets passed on, even multiplied from one person to the next. All because you took the time to invest in someone else. It's love in action—and it makes the world go round.

Warm regards,