We all have the ability to bring joy to another person’s life. A simple act of kindness can bring a smile to a person’s face. With just a moment of thoughtfulness and a little effort, we can make a difference for other people. In a world that is so desperately in need of good news and joy, we can be the people who bring happiness to the world around us.
The staff at Luciano, a restaurant in London, showed the world what a moment of thoughtfulness can do to bless a life. Natalie Te Paa and her friends stopped in for a late dinner after seeing a show. Luciano is one of Natalie’s favorite restaurants. While ordering, Natalie let it slip that it was her birthday and that they were there to celebrate. The staff immediately went to the kitchen to begin working on a special surprise for Natalie.
Natalie was excited to celebrate her birthday. I am sure she was hoping for a special piece of cake or other fancy dessert. What she received was a special moment of joy, made from chocolate, of course. The staff at Luciano knew that Natalie was blind. Normally, they would write a special message, in chocolate, for those who are celebrating a special day. For Natalie, they took a moment to use their culinary skills to write her birthday message in Braille. When the dessert was placed on the table, Natalie’s friend took her hand and placed it on the plate with the message written in chocolate. Natalie was heard around the restaurant as she said, “No way! They did not!” The joy on her face was unmistakable. She was not expecting this special attention, but it was a welcomed gift.
We often think that we cannot make a difference. We hesitate to try, for so many reasons, but the joy on Natalie’s face that night at Luciano should remind each of us that we all have the capacity to bring joy to another person’s life. One small, thoughtful act can make all the difference. Each of us has the ability to share God’s love and bring hope to at least one person, and who knows, maybe that will change the world.
-Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
