Leaving a Mark

There are some people who come into your life during important stages in your life. People whom you will always remember even though they may not remember your name a year from now. For example, I remember the name of each person who interviewed me for my job at Google (and there were many of them.) I have, over the three years, run across many of them and they don’t remember me, yet I know I will never forget them.



Same goes for the person who did my college interview or the person who sold me my first car, etc. The person who told me about Carnegie Mellon some twenty years ago. I bet he has no idea that he has completely changed the course of my life. I owe my education, my husband, my career, in part to him and his having mentioned the school to me all those years ago. These one-sided experiences always fascinated me.



Yesterday, I was talking to one such person. A woman who’s helping me through another huge life moment. I told her how thankful I am for her help and how I will remember her forever. I said, “I know I am one of many for you because this is what you do, but you are and will always be special to me.” She was touched and thanked me.



I wonder if people realize and appreciate the effect they might have on others. The tiny comment that might turn someone’s life around. Something you do as part of your job might actually leave a lasting spot in someone else’s journey. Isn’t that magical?



I think we don’t tell enough people how they’ve changed our lives. Imagine if someone told you about such a thing today. How something that was insignificant/effortless to you (something you likely don’t even remember) actually left a permanent mark in their life. Wouldn’t it be great to hear that. A bit scary maybe, but really awesome in a way that would put a smile on your face and remind you that your reach in this world is much wider than you imagine.



So take a moment today and thank someone who did that for you. Don’t be embarrassed. Don’t worry about how they might take it. Don’t expect a response. Just do it. Maybe, just maybe, you might make someone’s day.