Make a Stranger Smile

The other day I was feeling blue and went to do some retail therapy at Costco, as there is nothing like buying toilet paper in bulk to make you happy, right?

Well, they’ve rearranged the store since I was there last and so I walked around a bit more and a bit more confused than usual which wasn’t helping my ‘therapy.’ I did, however, spy the eco-friendly laundry detergent (that is now up front) and worked my way to it. I was pleased to have found an item on my list. Just then a lady who had passed me, turned, and said … ‘I like your shirt. Did you get that recently?’

I have to admit, I was a bit caught off guard. It was a very out of the blue comment. My green shirt was a year or so old from Patagonia and in my mind nothing too special. It’s more of an “every day” shirt and very commonplace to my wardrobe. Now, however, it is a very special shirt that will make me smile again and again as I remember the lady’s comment.

What a great thing to do – give a perfect stranger a compliment. So, say something nice to someone you don't know today. And, also someone you do know. It leaves a lasting impression.

I didn’t need the retail therapy after that but I did need the items on my list and eventually found them all. A successful outing on several fronts.