08/02/2026
Story from a board member...What Do You Have to Share?
Sometimes the most meaningful moments on a trip aren't the scenic overlooks, waterfalls, or hiking trails. Sometimes they're unexpected encounters with complete strangers.
During a recent visit to a state park, our group stopped at a trailhead to take a short walk. As we arrived, a little red-headed girl, probably about 5 years old, excitedly waved us over. She was with her mom, so it seemed perfectly fine to see what had her so enthusiastic.
The reason? She had just been given a brand-new package of stickers and could hardly wait to share them.
With great excitement, she offered one to each of the four of us. We all got to choose our favorites. Mine was a cute smiley face sticker. I placed it on my shirt and told her I was going to use it to cover a coffee stain from breakfast right before we came to the park.
It was one of those surprisingly touching moments that catches you off guard. Her happiness was contagious. Watching her excitement reminded us that she had clearly been taught an important lesson: sharing brings joy not only to the person receiving, but also to the person giving.
After thanking this sweet little lady and her mom, we continued down the trail, carrying our stickers and our smiles with us.
When we returned home from our short vacation, I peeled the sticker off my shirt. But, I couldn't bring myself to throw it away. Instead, I stuck it on a compact mirror case that I use every single day to check my makeup and hair before heading out into the world.
Now, every time I pick up that compact, that little smiley face makes me smile too.
How I wish I could let that little girl and her mom know how much happiness that simple sticker still brings me.
There's a message in this story that I think we all need to hear and remember: never miss an opportunity to share a kind word, lend a helping hand, or offer something that makes another person smile. Even something as small and simple as a smiley face sticker can have a lasting impact.
If you have something of value to share, whether it's a sticker, a talent, a skill, your time, your encouragement, or your kindness, consider giving it away. You may never know just how far that small act will travel or how long it will continue to brighten someone's day. ❤️🙂
