The Simple Things

Isn't it interesting how the simple things of life are often the most meaningful? "Little things add up." But don't big things add up faster? It all depends on your perspective, but I believe that the little simple things of life, those things that are most common carry the most meaning with them.

Every single day we have opportunities to do little, simple, things that can help others: small things that are never too far from our grasp. Far less frequently do chances arise to do large, momentous things which requre great amounts of work. What's the difference then? Doesn't it mean more to do more? Well, in a way.

First, consider some of the simple things we all appreciate each day. A smile. A wave. A greeting. A compliment. A small note. Everyone loves to receive them. Second, what are the effects? The average thinking, feeling human being becomes happier as a result of such simple acts. Third, exactly how much time and energy must be spent on such a simple action? I wouldn't consider smiling and waving a very intense exercise workout. You could probably do it all day and burn less calories than you do walking between classes. And the time to scrawl out a quick thank-you note? Maybe a minute.

In such small actions, there is deep meaning. When compared to a big project, people are more prone to decline due to a higher level of committment and time required. Those who follow through to completion show a great level of determination and love towards those who benefit from the project. They are less likely to fail the closer they get to their end goal. With such simple actions, little is required. Therefore, with simple actions it is far easier to choose not to. It's so small, that no one will notice, and no one really misses something they don't know about. But when people follow through, and give that one small wave, or greeting, or thank you, it shows a lot. By small and simple means great things come to pass. Small and simple is as big and meaningful as it gets.