I have been involved in so much lately. Testing, Musical practice, Make-A-Wish, you name it, I've been there. Well our production got moved to Sunday because of bad weather.
I was at a restaurant with my dad, waiting for our order to come up. This guy was sitting in a booth by himself. He was having a beer and he looked like your average everyday person. I was goofing off with my dad and teasing him and basically being a smart aleck. He started to talk with my dad and I went off to do something else. I was standing with my dad and the guy gave me some advice. He told me I needed to be myself and try not to fit in with others. Other people will like me for who I am. It struck me as a bit odd and I asked him if he knew from personal experience. He gave me a tired and sad look and told me he'd been around the block. Then he sat back down. His words really struck me and I found myself listening because of what he said. Before I left, I went over and gave him a hug and told him thanks. He hugged me tight and told me to take care. I hugged a total stranger I had just met and it felt just right to do so. Outside, my dad told me I was a brave soul. I found out at home that he was suffering from Post War Stress Syndrome. He had served in Vietnam.
It's at times like these that we find out how truly lucky we are. But it is also at times like these when we find out how truly brave we are when faced with such torment. I had no idea how badly he was suffering until I left that restaurant. But, I think by just giving a hug and acknowledging him, I made his day a little brighter. Or at least I hope.
My point is... make it a point today to step up. Go out and do a random act of kindness. Hug a stranger and say 'Good morning'. Help some one on your block carry in groceries. It doesn't matter. You may think that you can't change the world. This year I found out that I couldn't change the world. But... I can make a little kid smile by talking to them about what they like, I can make a person relieved by hearing them out, and I can make life seem a little easier for a little bit to an absolute stranger. It's not changing the world, it's not fame and fortune. However, it is more valuable than anything in the world, you will always remember, and they will always remember it.
Thanks for listening even though it was longer than expcted. I send you all my love and I hope you guys have a wonderful day.

~Serephim~