Step One to Becoming a Yam: You First.

                                      Photo by Lina Trochez for Unsplash

Some people, myself included, just need a lift. When pills, puppies* and Waterford Crystal stopped elevating my soul, I tried something new: giving. I started by trying to put a smile on the face of everyone I encountered. This was harder than it sounds, as some folks are determined to be sour and dour. I should know—I was one of them. I persisted nonetheless, taking it a step further. I worked on putting the needs of others above my own. This trick, it turns out, was not just effective in helping me forget my glum default. It also allowed me make lasting, genuine connections with others. 

This was liberating and it filled my proverbial cup. People replaced things. Emotions replaced repression. Generosity of spirit supplanted petty wants and "needs." 

You first replaced me first. 

To this day, I try to lead with my giving lens, asking What can I do for others today? 

By doing for others, I truly found myself. I’ve come to believe that the person I have (finally) grown into is pretty damned good. Not because of my Prada shoes or Gucci purses but because I have a good heart that is filled with gratitude.  


​*Lucky the wonder-dog notably excepted.