Someone I only know through Facebook asked me to help with her son's senior project for high school. I did not know him either. But I did what I could to help make his project a success. That moment lead me to write a letter to this young man. I would like to share it with you.

Have you ever said, “I’m only hurting myself”?

 

This is one of the biggest lies you’ll ever tell yourself. The defining characteristic of humanity is that we have the ability to mourn. Not just those we’ve lost, but even for those we have never met. On the other end of the scale we find that the essence of true human happiness extends from the ability to celebrate the accomplishments of others. These are integral parts of the interdependent nature that makes up humans as a society. As such, it stands to reason that when we hurt, so do they. When we succeed, so then do others around us experience vicarious joy.

 

The fact is that everything we say or do affects those around us; especially those who love us and care about us most. And around those people are still more people; some we know and some we do not. On the flip-side; all of our successes and achievements are due only in part to our own efforts. Behind the scene, there are forces working. Those closest to us, and those around them are pulling for your benefit in ways you may never see or fully understand. When we open ourselves to this concept, we begin to see the importance of positive influence. And when those around us need it, we become open to the idea of lending that sometimes invisible support which can so often become a tangible step toward achievement.

 

My father used to say, “Leave the room better than you found it”. Sometimes this means picking up things; sometimes it means picking up people. When we can do this simply and solely because it is the right thing to do, then we can feel assured that we have left the room better than we found it.

 

Though I’ve never met you, I care about you. Your successes, your goals, your advancements are important. In time, we will hand this world over the care of your generation. You and others like you will determine the course of the world – my world…our world. I need to know that I’ve done my part to prepare you. I need you to know that I’m counting on you; pulling for you. I truly want better for you, than I want for myself.

 

Go forth and fearlessly be yourself.

Sincerely;

Dan