A note from a colleague

18 June 2010

Today's note is brought to you by Graham Want, Director of Ministry & Mission

Dear Friends,

History often turns on small hinges. Most of us never know the impact of the seemingly small things we do on peoples' lives or even history. A word of praise, or of ridicule casually spoken at a critical moment can mark a person for the whole of their life. The little things that people do reverberate through time as do ripples on a pond caused by the toss of a tiny pebble.

I have observed over the years, that one of the great differences between successful and unsuccessful people is the importance they place on little things. There has to be a reason why men and women of equal talent do not have equal success, and oftentimes, men and women of less talent have much greater success than many other talented ones.

Often, people who pay attention to small details are negatively called perfectionists. They are criticized because of their overemphasis on seemingly "trivial matters." It might be wise, however, for less successful people to examine the life principles of those who are successful, and in so doing, not criticise the differences, but rather pattern after them.

When I was a young, I boy I regularly went to church with my parents and older brother. I also played in the church's under fourteen soccer team.

Each Sunday I sat dutifully through the services: Singing the hymns and listening to the sermons. I don't remember too many things that the Rev Charles Gray said.

One Saturday, our soccer coach didn't turn up for the soccer game. Eleven or twelve of us boys were stranded at the church with no way to get to the game. The minister heard of our plight, gave up his Saturday morning, and took us to the game. That day we had our first win of the season. I don't remember what he said through his hours of preaching but his little kindness is something I remember 40 years on..

Little things that make a difference: Remembering someone's name, looking a person in the eyes when you shake their hand and meet them for the first time, remembering a birthday or sending a card on an anniversary. Saying “thank you,” when people give you something or do something for you. Being on time. Keeping your promises and not making promises you can't keep. These are hallmarks of successful people: Successful in life, successful with relationships, successful at work.

Small things do matter. The smallest, most ordinary action can produce the most life-changing and history-changing results.

Do a little something for someone today. Say hello, give a smile, offer a word of encouragement, let someone who is struggling know you care.

Have a good day.

Graham Want
Director of Ministry & Mission

Christian Life