We all have a little something to give
October 18, 2009
Last week my very good friend, Melinda, gave my 13 year old son the opportunity of a lifetime. That was to interview his most cherished football player, Adrian Peterson. Now those of you who have followed my blog know that this has been a tough football year for my son. Funny thing is – this fleeting moment with Adrian Peterson has given him a respite from the challenges he faces and brought an all new confidence. As I sent off an email to someone I know within the organization I was telling him what a great person Adrian Peterson was. He showed up to this event without an entourage – no sleezy girls following – just him and one of his buddies. WOW!!!!!! I have spent the better part of the last 20 years working on events, PR and Marketing that have involved professional athletes and celebrities and boy do they come with an entourage and groupies, not this guy. He was very humble, very human, very genuine. We need more like him. But I digress… I was telling my friend at the Vikings how amazing it is that someone who plays the game of football has the power within moments to erase the bad from someone’s world – just by noticing him – by shaking his hand – by offering a moment of himself. I wonder what our world would be like if all of us did something like this for others. Because you know you don’t have to be a celebrity to give of yourself. Take my friend – she is kind of a celebrity – but she doesn’t think so – but she gave of her three minutes on camera to my son. WOW!!!!!
So I ask, what have you given of yourself today. Was their an elderly lady on the bus – whom you gave up your seat. Did you hold the door for that mom who had a baby in her hands. Did you offer a moment of listening to someone who was having a hard day. Kindness and goodness can come from anyone – you don’t have to be AP to do it – it sure is nice… but you don’t have to be.
Check out the interview on www.melindajacobs.com
