"Do all things without grumbling or complaining, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life..." Philippians 2:14-16
To be/do or not to be/do... that is the question.
During the recent winter "storm", i had a surprising outing. Around 1pm Saturday, i went to return a purchase. After walking in the store from the frigid weather, i found the service area literally in the dark. Was it closed? Where were the helpers? Confused, i turned to a smiling employee and asked her where they were. She politely told me i'd have to come back another time -- likely tomorrow. What??!? So now, i have to take my item back through the Arctic to the car and then come back to shop?? She smiled. I felt chilled to the bone.
As i slowly turned to leave, I heard a man calling, "Wait little lady, wait."
With simmering confusion, i turned to see who he meant. Running up to me, he politely said, "I can help you."
So, here came my first choice... greet him with an icy face or a smile.
As he happily processed my refund, i asked him why the department was empty. He shared he was the only one in the store managing all the front store business of checking out and service from 7 to noon. 53 employees had called out. Instead of complaining, he was doing all he could. His do-all-i-can attitude melted my sour disposition.
I next decided to stay and shop in the sparsely-stocked store with a new attitude. I was grateful for what items i could find, and thanked every employee i passed for their choice of being there. Not only did they smile, but i felt a smile ignite within me too.
May we encourage and show appreciation whenever we can instead of grumbling about what's missing or wrong. Spreading JOY delivers richer rewards for all than spreading misery.
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