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About 2 or 3 months ago I was out and about performing the typical "adulting" tasks of running errands, when I decided to make it a point to specifically stop at our local Staples. With an idea in my head, I walked with purpose right over to the self-printing machine and set out to print out several photos of Archangels and a very recent photo of me mother - looking stunningly beautiful with her new bald head. The picture of a warrior princess. For some odd reason (or so I thought) the machine and I were most definitely not on the same energy frequency and with few failed attempts, I eventually turned to the women behind the counter for assistance. She happily helped me and printed out all that I requested. As I searched for my debit card, she slide the enlarged photos across the counter and said, "No charge." I was stunned at first until I looked up and saw her eyes. It was this unspoken moment between two strangers. I smiled, made eye contact, and barely got out a meek little, "thank you." But that moment mattered to me....

This past week, while in full blown entrepreneur mode, I stopped into Staples yet again for my usual Zen Party flyers and marketing materials. I was beyond thrilled to see that women behind the counter. I couldn't have ran up to her fast enough. I told her that I was grateful for her presence that day so I could take the opportunity to thank her sincerely for that kind gesture months ago. I knew she knew. I told her all about my Mom's hard fight and what a blessing it is to receive even the smallest kindnesses. Her eyes got slightly watery as she spoke, "I understand completely. My son is 21 years old. He has been fighting Hodgkin's Lymphoma for the past 3 years. It's a nightmare."

We connected further and I continue to send her blessings still, as I am sure she is sending some my way as well. No family is immune from tragedy. But we can...if you choose it...be immune from the darkness that comes with it. Reach out to others, extend empathy and understanding, and above all, light up someone's day..even if just for a brief moment in time. After all, we are all connected.