The Lie That We All Tell

We don't mean to, and we probably don't even realize we're lying, but there is one thing we say fairly often that is almost always a lie:

"It's no big deal."

We say this or a variant of it after we're thanked for holding the door or bringing dinner, for being a listening ear or accomplishing a task for someone.

We say it because we believe it.

We think that these actions are insignificant, that they're no big deal.

Let me be the first to tell you:

There is no such thing as an insignificant act of service.

Over the last few weeks especially, I've been the recipient of many "small" acts of kindness.

"I'm sorry," "It's going to be okay," "Call me anytime," "I miss you."

These phrases, sent over text or said without too much thought, mean the world.

A hug, a phone call, a picture or video sent to make me smile.

These are the tiny adjustments of a steering wheel

 that can turn a day around.

You never know what someone is going through. Even if you know what they're going through, you still don't know what they're going through. Unless you're a Vulcan, there is no way to literally feel what others are feeling.

Let's say, for example, that someone feels heavy and empty at the same time. That they're tired and it's hard to make themselves do anything at all.

You may not know this, but if you start up a conversation and slip a compliment in there, you could lighten their heavy load. You could fill some of their emptiness. You could brighten and uplift in ways you don't even realize.

I love this quote for two reasons:

1) it says "another struggling soul."

We're all struggling with something. 

We all need a little extra kindness, a little more love.

2) It references the enormous implications a little kindness can have.

A warm hug can remind someone that they are loved.

A funny video can remind someone that there is joy to be found.

A simple compliment can remind someone, even a little, of how wonderful they are.

So keep doing the "small stuff."

Keep doing those things that are "no big deal."

Because, I promise, it makes a difference.