The Nike Experience

Enjoying the cooler air outside as a thunderstorm was making its way overhead, I sat reading my book waiting for my car to be serviced. From the corner of my eye I could see a family walk my way. Grandma was taking her grandchildren into Panera for an afternoon snack. How delightful!

On the other side of the door were more tables. There, sat a man with dreads in an Orange Lead uniform and another older gentleman. They were having a quiet conversation. I buried my head back into my book.

Minutes later Grandma came out with her treats in hand. The kids eagerly following. Then something happened. One of the children with Grandma, a young boy about six-years-old, passed by the Orange Leaf employee at the tables across from me. “I like your shoes,” the boy told him enthusiastically.”

(Photo Cred: kenz_store)

I looked down to notice the shoes the boy was referring to. Bright colorful Nike basketball shoes were on his feet. The boy was wearing similar Nike running shoes. “I like your shoes too. I think I like them even better,” said the Orange Leaf employee.

Giddy, the young boy scurried off to catch up with his family. Once he did he turned back quickly to look at the man who had just made his day. “No yours are cooler,” he shouted back.

Life can seem mundane at times. We can easily find ourselves walking through our routines and tasks like robots. It doesn’t have to be this way. If you open your eyes and see what is happening right in front of you, you’ll find moments of joy, generosity and love. This experience shared by the young boy and Orange Leaf employee didn’t save someone’s life and it won’t be featured on the evening news. However, it brought joy. Little moments can have a big impact. I saw it and I sheepishly experienced it myself as I watched the exchange happen from a distance.

What joy, generosity and love will you find today? Or better yet, how will you bring it to others?

#moments #joy #motivation #inspiration