Everyday. You. Matter.

This morning, CBS Sunday Morning profiled the increase in youth suicide and organizations doing their part to help schools, families, friends and professionals be a part of the solution by engaging in their communities.   The obvious undercurrent of this story is that there are many negative forces in the world that can create seemingly unbearable environments, and as a result, there is a need to not only support those in duress, but to continually strive to dissolve the hatred in the world that can create such environments.  I was also reminded of the need for all of us to be present when we interact with others and remember the power each of us have to be a positive force in the lives of others. One such organization doing that with such purpose is Jamie Tworkowski and the organization he founded "To Write Love on Her Arms". http://www.twloha.com/

Remember, you never know whose spirits you can lift, what smiles you can bring, and even what lives you can improve or save, just by believing that you can make a difference and acting accordingly.  Take the time to pay attention to people – I mean really pay attention.  Look at their eyes and their body language; really, really listen to them.  Ask questions to learn more about them, and acknowledge their strengths and accomplishments.  If they seem distracted or bothered, it never hurts to lend an ear or simply share a smile and encouraging word or hand on the shoulder.  We all need it from time to time.  If everyone assumed it wasn’t their place, then no one would offer support to those in need.  Remember, every day, you matter to someone.  

Although every smile, thank you or hug is not a lifesaver, you certainly don’t want to miss the opportunity if it could be.

You are more important than you could possibly know.