Little Opportunities

Opportunities multiply

as they are seized.

Sun Tzu

There is much to be said for major life changing experiences requiring deep thought and consideration.  We frequently forget, however, the little opportunities that can collectively shape the direction of our lives.

When paying attention, our daily lives are filled with small exchanges that when acted upon, adjusts our self-respect and shifts our perception of others.  When we stay in the moment, we are much more apt to catch the little opportunities to bring a breath of fresh air or a ray of sunshine into life.

The other day, I was sitting at an outdoor cafe enjoying coffee.  I am a people watcher, love to sketch, and frequently jot notes into my journal.  While I enjoyed my morning, the behavior of the people around me became teachers of the gifts found in the little moments of our day.

At a table near by, a woman sat by herself staring into her cup of coffee.  A muffin sat on her plate, untouched.  Her body language reflected an attitude of loneliness, slouched as though she were carrying a heavy weight.   A small part of me thought of striking up a conversation (Spirit probably nudging me), but I was settled in and looked the other way.

A short time passed and the tables were full.  A new woman was carrying around her breakfast tray looking for a place to sit.  She approached the woman whom appeared lonely and asked, "Might I join you just for a little bit?"  The body language of the lonely woman immediately shifted.  She perked up, sat straighter, and a warm smile spread across her face as she replied, "Oh, please do!"  As I watched, they ended up sharing their food and fell into a lively conversation like old friends. 

This was a little opportunity, nothing earth shattering or life changing, but significant changes were made.  The lonely woman's spirit was lifted, she felt included, and with the possibility of a new friend.  The other woman more than likely felt so glad she acted upon the nudge she felt to join the lonely woman.  She, too, must have felt happier and appreciated. 

Through out our day, we have little incidents pop up where we can decide to act selfishly or to honor the spirit of an other.   We may find a perfect parking spot right near the door, but choose the one three cars down as a gift to someone else.  We may allow the person with a grocery cart with only a few items to cut in line in front of us or wave another driver of a car to get in line ahead of us when the traffic is jammed. 

There are millions of little things.  A simple smile for a stranger, assistance to someone who is struggling with a door, help gather papers that have just been dropped or send a short random e-mail to a friend who has been on your mind.

Small and seemingly insignificant actions can change the attitude of someone for the remainder of the day.  Simple attention to a small detail may allow a loner to feel a part of a group.  To be included, rather than shut-out of a conversation can lift self-esteem and change the immediate perception of life. 

We don't have to wait for a financial wind fall to help others.  We don't need to wait for the perfect volunteer position. Through little opportunites, we can become instruments of peace, happiness, and kindness.  In return, our spirits will soar!