Life Lessons

Many times throughout the day, I am reminded of the inherent goodness in people. I had an experience yesterday that brought it back, yet again, how people can positively respond to how they are treated. I first noticed this concept back in elementary school with the Lunch Ladies. I knew they had been slaving away in those hair nets and orthopedic Velcro shoes since early that morning to prepare my meal for me. I always made an effort to make eye contact with a smile to thank them for their hard work. My tummy appreciated them, too. It always made me feel better seeing their faces light up because gratitude was spoken. My life probably would be easier if I was oblivious to other people, but I find great joy in noticing them and focusing in their goodness. Can I can blame my sugar addiction on these sweet ladies from my childhood since they would sometimes slip me an extra cookie or chocolate milk at the end of the cafeteria line?

As for my reminding interaction yesterday, I always try to be really nice to people. It doesn't matter if they are complete strangers in line at the grocery store (yes, I'm one of those annoying people who will strike up random conversation), or someone I work with on a regular basis. Such was the case with my mechanic yesterday when we went to pick up My Baby from a little bit more maintenance. Frank is new to the area and transferred here from another Hawker Beechcraft Service Center. Frank is the one to sign off all the logbooks after work has been completed, so his role is rather critical in our operation. He was wonderful and polite, and we enjoyed some conversation last week when I met him for the first time. I casually mentioned how my maintenance logbooks carrying case was about to give out. Guess what was on my seat yesterday when I arrived to pick up my airplane? I was so pleasantly surprised by his thoughtfulness and overwhelmed with gratitude. I felt like I had been handed a chocolate chip cookie at the end of the line, only better because of less calories. From endless personal experiments, I have noticed that people are nice to you if you are nice to them. And it sure is fun to get some luggage out of it from time to time.