It’s The Little Things

“The older I get, the more I’m conscious of ways very small things can make a change in the world. Tiny little things, but the world is made up of tiny matters, isn’t it?”    

 Sandra Cisneros

Every November I would get a call (not some generic email) from Virginia at Gordon’s Office Supply, (a small little Mom and Pop office supply store in my town of Mill Valley) telling me that my calendar for next year had come in. I hadn’t even ordered it – but Virginia knew that every year I ordered the same one from her and she knew how to take care of her favorite customers. Virginia made me feel special, taken care of, seen and heard. I was so sad when they were forced out of business due to the take-over of big chains like Office Depot that gave lower prices but less customer care. And now every year when I go online to order my calendar I think of Virginia, and miss that special personal gesture she would make for me.

I realize, especially as I get older, how it’s all these kinds of little things that makes a higher, richer quality of life, and how connection and community are what feeds my soul.

I just returned from a trip where I reconnected with my best friend from high school. Allen and I had stayed in basic touch through all the many years, but because of living in different cities and having busy lives we just knew of the main events – but not the little things, the sweet things, the details that make up each day. Being with him in person – not just through emails or phone calls – and now meeting his husband and two adorable children, I realized how important these little things are and how they make me want to be more involved with him and his family. 

So as this New Year begins, rather than making big goals, I am looking to create more of the smaller, sweeter moments with family, friends, the women who come to my retreats, the people at my talks and concerts…more connection, more love, and ultimately more fulfillment. 

Let’s create together a year that will be filled with love, relationships, and kindness for each other and the world. How does that sound to you? Wanna join me?