One day as I was doing homework in the library, I witnessed a wonderful exchange between a student and one of the librarians. (Bit of background: This librarian helps students with research for projects, essays, etc.) The student went up to her desk and said, "I just wanted to say thank you for all of your help this past week." The librarian turned red as she held back tears. She put her hand over her heart and all she could do was nod her head. She took a moment before saying, "Thank you. That means so much to hear." The student left and the librarian sat there at her desk, taking deep breaths and nodding her head. She looked up to see me and said, "He is the nicest boy. He has been working so hard this week." I smiled and she just continued to be in awe.

One simple "thank you" enhanced this woman's day. The wave of gratitude and awe that washed over her was so apparent, and it makes you wonder how many students actually say thank you for her help. She is the sweetest woman and for all her hard work she truly does deserve more than a "thank you". This brief moment of interaction was so poignant. In just two, meaningful words this student made someone's day. I admire him for taking a second to recognize the woman for her help and kindness. That shows integrity.

Any chance you get, thank someone in your life who has helped you in some manner. We can never truly know or understand what someone is going through. Be mindful of others. Be kind. The best thing we can do is spread love and joy in a world filled with so much hate and sorrow.

I often say, "It's the little things", which stems from a saying about how it is the little things in life that matter and that make you appreciate the bigger things. I'd like to think that saying has a double meaning. It's the little things like saying thank you, holding the door, or doing the dishes without being asked that can make a positive impact. Yes, appreciating the little moments like a sunset on the beach or an hour at lunch with a longtime friend matter. However, appreciating others, whether you know them or not, by doing little acts of kindness matters just the same.

So, to my family: Thank you for loving me unconditionally, for always making me laugh, for supporting me in all I do, and for being the best family in the world. All of you have touched my heart in some way, and I am forever grateful to you all. Allowing me to grow-up in such a close-knit, loving, selfless family has made me the woman I am today. I could not be prouder of who I am or where I come from. Though I could never articulate just how much this family means to me, I will try, using just a few, meaningful words: I love you.