Everyone has a story

You see a man at the grocery store yelling at the clerk. You may think he is this way because he was treated unfairly, maybe it is because of something in his past and that maybe it is not his fault. Maybe it is. Either way, there is a story. And because there is a story it is a chance to show grace and compassion.

You see a woman scream at her child for picking up a candy bar near the checkout. You may think she is this way because she is trying to teach her kids right from wrong, maybe she is short on time or maybe it is because she cannot afford the candy bar. Still, there is a story.

Think of someone you see casually each day but have never talked to. The waitress at the local coffee shop, the security guard or the person who eats lunch alone each day.

Even though we have never spoken to any of these people, it is human nature to make up a story in our mind about who they are, what kind of people they and what they are like.

We even do this for people we do not know very well.We are quick to judge on these stories we have created in our minds. What do you think would happen if we stopped listening to the stories as we think they are in our minds, but rather stopped and listened to the real story?

Everyone has a story to tell. We all learn from one another. We all learn from experience.Take some time to get the real story, of their experience.

Everyone wants to be heard and feel that what they have to say is meaningful to others. As you get older, you realize just how much more important these stories become. And how important it is just to be heard.

Take the opportunity to listen with open ears, open mind and an open heart to the stories of the people around you. It will greatly enrich your life and soul!

You will meet new friends, be humbled by the challenges that some people face, and be inspired and encouraged by the accomplishments they have achieved. Listen without making judgments and resist the urge to tell your own story. You will be giving a gift to everyone around you and will get some very special gifts in return.

Remember that everyone has a story and every story matters!