Saturday, I was at a college football game, my first in a while. Waiting in line for the restroom at half-time was quite the experience. I traveled past the restroom looking for the end of the line, I thought I'd reached it a few times, only to be told to go further back. With each step, I wondered if I'd make it in time.
After finding the end of the line, I was happy to see it move. About 25 feet from the restroom door, an older gentleman and a boy who seemed to be his grandson slipped into line ahead of me. The young man looked embarrassed, and I felt a flash of irritation, especially given the situation's urgency. But when he turned to me with an apologetic expression, I softened. I spoke to him kindly, saying, "We're all trying to get somewhere; let's do it better together." He looked relieved, and though I'm not sure how others in line felt, no one complained.
This moment reminded me how my behavior can impact others, often more than I realize. A simple smile can lift spirits, while a dismissive glance can dampen them. Holding the door open might inspire kindness, just as ignoring someone might breed indifference. Every action I take, every word I speak, adds a line to the example of my life.
Authenticity makes a difference. When I am genuine and consistent, people notice. My sincerity resonates with others, reflecting a life grounded in truth.
The beauty of being an example is that I can always revise it. I am not bound to my past actions; I can reshape my message with conscious effort. Each day is an opportunity to ask myself: What am I teaching the world today? What message am I sending through my example?
How about you? Are you being the example you want to show others?
Watch for the blind spots.
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