Respite Reflections’ purpose is to help people push the “pause” button in their transition work — to take a break from the thinking, researching, networking and preparing for interviews. Taking a moment to center yourself, ponder a positive thought, and focus on a broader perspective is invaluable during a time of transition.
“For every beauty there is an eye somewhere to see it.
For every truth there is an ear somewhere to hear it.
For every love there is a heart somewhere to receive it.”
– Ivan Panin
It is quite easy to become overwhelmed with all there is to do. Intent upon completing a multitude of personal tasks, a sense of anonymity can occur, of being an invisible number in the throngs of many. Although it is true that we are just one, the opposite is also true and our singular presence is very much felt by those we encounter – whether it is driving, meeting, dining, talking or simply waiting.
Believe that it makes a difference that you are here. Believe that it’s important to care about one another. Believe that one person each day can feel better for your having been here. If you do not think it’s within your power to better someone’s day, prove yourself wrong by offering a smile or a thank you to the stranger waiting next to you in line or the clerk behind the counter. See what happens. It could make your day!
– Connie Popp
Dr. Connie Popp is a board member for The Center for Life Transitions as well as an active facilitator for the Center’s Life-SHIFT and Job Search Courage programs. She is also the Director of Campus Ministry at Alverno College in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Read more.