It was crowded after our delayed three hour turbulent ride from Denver to Chicago. Passengers were inevitably going to miss connecting flights and emotion was running high,  yet most of us patiently waited our turn to exit the plane.

A two minute dialogue between a young mom and two irate passengers created an unexpected personal resolution. I didn’t resolve at that very moment – it just happened.  A sad, painful ‘discussion’ caused me to unconsciously resolve to add a bit of kindness to life’s daily interactions.

The mom, concerned for her young child, asked politely “would you please watch your language? My five year old daughter is listening.”  Nope. Wasn’t going to happen. The response? An increase in volume and adult language.

My outlook changed that afternoon. The discussion reached the depths of my heart. I found myself being kinder, more thoughtful, more considerate.  A conscious decision to be more thoughtful wasn’t made, yet the interchange affected me; I haven’t forgotten. It changed me.

We never know the influence we have on others. I resolve to have a positive influence.

For the love of family….