I have always made it my personal goal to be impactful to those around me, in even the simplest things I do. I have always found joy and purpose in serving others before myself.

But, about a year ago, I was struggling. Personally wondering how I could really make a large and influential impact on the world. I felt an urge to contribute in a huge way to help change the world, but I could not put my finger upon what exactly my purpose was. That was my first mistake — thinking I could be fulfilled if I found the one elusive act that would change the world and give my life meaning.

Like I was, a lot of people are under the misconception that to change the world you must contribute in a huge, world-changing event. When in reality, you can change the world everyday by doing the simplest and kindest things.

Don’t believe me? It sounds a little too simple doesn’t it? Well let me tell you about my summer.

This summer I began a part time job at a distribution warehouse, notorious for the “drug addicts” who worked there. Weeks before my first day, I heard comments like, “Well, you’re sure to meet some, uhm, interesting people!” as well as, “I’m sure you’ll be the smartest one in there.” And the simple, “Please be careful…”

Needless to say, I was not overly enthused about starting the job. But the hours were perfect for my busy schedule and the pay was over minimum wage, so I tried to stay as positive as possible.

I worked at the warehouse for roughly a month. And during those weeks, my perspective of the people inside completely changed. No one there was scary, no one was intellectually incompetent. In fact, everyone was so kind to me, and each of them had worked VERY HARD in the factory for MANY years to support their families. Most importantly, everyone had a name and a story. I was overjoyed to meet people and get to know their stories.

One woman who particularly touched me was a woman named Mary.

I first met Mary three weeks into working at the warehouse. We talked a lot about her family, her beliefs and her life. Then at the end of my shift, Mary turned to me and said, “I knew you had a beautiful spirit just by watching you talk to people. Now that I’ve talked to you, you’ve proved it.”

That compliment touched my heart. I had never been complimented on my spirit before! It was such a deep and personal compliment, I will never forget it. A week after meeting Mary, it was time for me to leave the factory to prepare for college.

The day before I left, Mary came to me and said she had something to give me before I left. The next day she handed me an envelope with my name on it. Inside the envelope was $30 and a card that read, “Expect miracles, God knows you deserve them. May God bless you! Always seek the Lord in all things and you will never wonder if you are doing his will! Have fun in school! It was great working with you. Take Care, Mary Anne.” It was mind boggling to think that I had only known Mary for a week, but by simply being genuinely kind and accepting I had impacted her life that much.

After my experience with Mary, I no longer crave to be part of one single monumental event. But rather, I strive to make a difference every day. I have found that the best way I can make a difference in people’s lives, is by being genuinely kind and accepting to everyone. Everyone is different, and that is what makes the world such an amazing place. I live to talk to strangers, hear their stories, form a friendship and be there for anyone and everyone I meet. I have found that the best way to impact the world is not by some grandiose moment, but by genuinely being kind every day, in every way.