The Little Things

I'm always talking about how the little things and the simple things are truly the big things. Today I had several ah ha moments where I felt justified in my theory. I love those moments when it all becomes so clear, and we can truly see through all the junk with a clear perspective. I had a few small victories at work today. Having confidence in myself has allowed me to do several things this week that are little things, but they are so huge in my eyes. I relied on material I learned sophomore year of college to solve some quite unique challenges with my bookkeeping. I decided not to doubt my abilities and just go for it, and guess what? I succeeded. It wasn't anything major, but it set the tone for my entire day.
As I walked from my office to the dining hall this afternoon, I paused for a brief moment. I looked up at the sky, and felt the snowflakes fall upon my face as I took in the deepest breath of air I could. In that moment, all I could do was praise God for giving me such a great moment and such a blessed life. That fresh air filling my lungs as I walked freely across beautiful land was a reminder. Breathing fresh air, and being able to walk from here to there are both things we generally take for granted. There are people who die every day trying to walk home from the market or from school while there is a war going on 10 miles down the road from them. Even in our own country, our children are killing other children because of turf, symbols, the difference in how they look, and what economic background they were born in. So, you see, a simple walk for us is a big thing for many people. A simple breath of fresh, crisp, February air is just part of my every day, but for someone out there, fresh air is something they long for.
I received an email today from one of my higher ups. He's a very intelligent man, and I have a tendency to run to him often with my bookkeeping questions. I know it can get to be a lot, and I have often wondered when he was going to say enough is enough. However, I emailed him today with just information. I didn't have any questions because I had somehow managed to figure out some pretty difficult issues on my own. I just wanted to let him know I was almost completed with some paperwork that he would be involved with later on. I didn't expect a response because there was no need for one, but what he sent to me meant the world. He congratulated me on figuring out the issues on my own. He then went on to use several very thoughtful adjectives to describe my performance in a highly positive light. It was the next sentences that truly made me day. "You are an asset. We are quite lucky to have you on our team. It's a blessing." I know that doesn't seem like much, but coming from the man it did makes it a huge deal. He didn't have to respond, but he took the time to and he gave me confirmation that i'm doing a good job. Simple words can have a big impact.
We don't always have the best of days, but today was a reminder to me that even on days that seem to be awful, there will always be something small that can turn it around. My day probably would have been okay if none of the above happened, but I wouldn't take back those simple moments I mentioned for anything in the world. Step outside. I know it's cold, but inhale and exhale and thank God for the ability. Tell someone how much you appreciate them. That they are a blessing. The little things y'all. They're huge.