03-10, Sometimes, It's the Simple Things

The beautifully adorned desk of a school employee who transforms her space for every holiday.

I searched my pics diligently in hopes of finding new inspiration for my daily Slice of Life writing challenge. After scrolling through several weeks, I was feeling a little apprehensive. Nothing struck me. Nothing “popped.” Nothing caught my eye; but, as I scrolled back into February, I found myself enchanted with hearts and sparkles and tendrils from a holiday happening. And then I remembered why I was there and captivated at all.

It was parent conference night. I was meeting with teachers for my middle school student, and as I hurriedly rushed along, I missed the picturesque scene upon my arrival, but on my way out, I couldn’t overlook it. I was too smitten.

“This is beautiful!” I exclaimed. Followed by, “Who did this?”

I was quickly informed that the employee (whose name now escapes me) was widely celebrated for her mesmerizing decorations as she faithfully committed to the cause for every happy holiday celebrated at the school. It occurred to me that this took a lot of effort. I reasoned that it wasn’t required. I’m pretty sure it was personally funded, and it appeared that her space was very small. Yet, nearly everyone on the campus, both student and staff, looked forward to her heartwarming creativity and inspiration. Why is that?

Well, I think it’s because sometimes, the simple things can be the most meaningful of all.

I’ve never met a school worker who didn’t have an abundance of tasks to do. Most of the ones I know don’t have a handsome salary. Though there is much to celebrate, there is stress and strain, at times, strife – but I believe most are truly there for the benefit of the students. Nevertheless, I am fascinated by her efforts to brighten the campus from the little bit of space which she’s been given.

I love the neatness of the desk. The concentric valentines that dance from the ceiling. The crimson tinsel that cradles the borders, and the lovely backdrop of bountiful hearts bursting with attention to detail. I am inclined to believe that many people passed by just to take in the sights. I imagine that it provided a pleasant distraction for others who may have been having a gloomy day. I envision warm conversations taking place as they smiled and inquired about her inspiration. I believe all of this occurred primarily because she took time to make a simple plan – to make it beautiful.

This desk didn’t undergo a million dollar makeover. It wasn’t featured on the news or in the trendiest magazine; but, the person who put it together took her time and her effort to transform her space in a way that could positively affect others. How lovely.

On many occasions, there are simple things we can do that can also impact the lives of others. It may be an array of kind comments. Holding open the door. Stopping to give a genuine compliment to a stranger or a wealth of other gestures where we seek to make someone else smile. Often, these efforts cost us little financial investment. Some of them cost nothing at all.

Though I rushed in hurriedly that night, preoccupied with whether I’d be late, I’m glad that my departure was more of a stroll. Even in her absence, and though we’d never met, I found her simple efforts to be breathtaking, and they brightened my day. I snapped the picture so I wouldn’t forget – it’s the simple things we do that can matter most of all.

#brightensomeonesday #Ibelieveinrandomactsofkindness #sparklefromtheinsideout #youneverknowwhoseheartyoullwarm #betheone #carlamichelle