Life is what you make of it…

I was on the subway today, and looked down to see a young nanny reading Frog and Toad to the two children she was looking after. Those are, even now, some of my favorite stories.

Pulling out one of my earbuds, I strained to listen to her as she made noises along with the story, affecting voices for each Frog and Toad. The kids were rapt in her storytelling, nearly sitting on the edge of their seats (literally) as she continued. I looked around to see one, two, three, the old man next to me, four, five, six! Six other riders on this train also enjoying the spectacle of this young woman reading to these children. (I’m positive there were more, but I was missing the story!)

Unfortunately, my stop came all too soon! As the train pulled into the station I tapped her gently on the shoulder as she looked to see what station we were at. Glancing at me I smiled and said “Thank you for making my day.” The smile that spread across her face, tinged with a bit of red on her cheeks was sublime.

What had been a rough day turned into a wonderful day. As I walked back to the apartment I couldn’t help but smile. And I smiled at everyone I passed, and instead of looking at me funny (as people on the streets of NYC are wont to do) they smiled back.

Life is what you make of it. And I want to touch the hearts of those around me, just like the young woman on the train. (Even now, a smile creeps across my face!) I want to bring joy to an otherwise dreary world.

And maybe you can help me…

Smile at someone today. A true, genuine, honest smile. What you do after that is up to you.

Many of you have helped me through some of the most difficult moments of my life. I am a better person to have known you all, and I consider you close friends.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.

And for those of you also facing difficult times, know that, even though it may not seem like it, there are warm hearts all around you. Just raise your eyes up from the ground and you’ll see them.

Much love to you all.

– Noah