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One a day

One of the things I recall from years past is an advertising ditty that went like this: “A [something] a day keeps the doctor away.

One of the things I recall from years past is an advertising ditty that went like this: “A [something] a day keeps the doctor away.”

I don’t recall what that something was but the lilt and the rhyme have continued, prompting these thoughts about influence.

If you’re like me you’ve sometimes pondered the influence of people who have swayed the politics, policies or population of countries locally, nationally and sometimes, globally.

“How do they do it?” we ask. “What’s the secret of garnering so much attention?” Like you, I’m sure, there are those whom I admire greatly and others, well let’s just say the opposite is closer to the truth.

Being born into certain families or income classes certainly plays a role for some. For others, breakthroughs in science, education or entertainment ensure fame and often, fortune. For some, acts of heroism or bravery rightfully endorse them as worthy of praise.

I’ve been thinking a lot about this, especially in light of the impossibility of me ever achieving worldwide recognition (not that I’ve ever wanted to).

Here are my thoughts, based on a lovely phone call I received today: it just takes one daily act of kindness to lift the spirits of someone. Over the past three decades I’ve determined to encourage, cheer, reassure or even, on occasion, to have emboldened at least one person every day.

I know by experience know how much those things have blessed me as much as they did the recipient.

“So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.”               I Thessalonians 5:11 (New Living Translation)

“Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps, each word a gift.” Ephesians 4:29 (The Message)

Who can you encourage today?

(Aah, I remember, it’s “an apple a day.”)