It’s the Simple Things in Life That can Really Make a Difference

The other day, I was driving home from the radio station, a million thoughts on my mind, the next event I would be attending, work I was taking home with me, when I drove past a lemonade stand. You know, the one kids have set up in their yard on a small table, hoping people will stop and buy some. It may be their first attempt in the world of free enterprise, and they are full of hope and excitement. But, as the day wears on, their hopes dim because most people, as I did, just drive by, too busy to stop.In a second, my childhood flashed before my eyes. My brother Al and I, along with neighbor kids we recruited, Sharon, and Dick, would get together and make a stand. I think it was actually Kool-Aid, but no matter, it was ours and we were so proud. We even decided that people might want a snack, so out came Ritz Crackers. Now, you're talking deliciousness, Kool-Aid and Ritz Crackers. Nothing better!

We were so happy when anyone stopped, which weren't many. We may have made a dollar that day. Don't forget, though, prices were a lot different back then, At our stand, you could get a cup of Kool-Aid for a dime, and an extra penny got you a delicious Ritz Cracker. Mmmmm.

As those warm memories flooded my brain, I hit the brakes of my car, pulled over to the side of the road, and walked back to the little lemonade stand. There was only one boy there. The helper, his sister, was climbing in a tree, probably to pass the lonely time of nobody stopping for their delicious, hand-made lemonade.

I ordered a cup. "How much," I asked? "Fifty cents," he said. Inflation had hit. I reached into my pocket and pulled out two quarters and handed them to him. "Thanks," he said, beaming. "Have you had many customers," I asked. "Nope, not yet, but it's early." It was 3 p.m., but he was still full of hope. And, anyway, his sister was out of his hair, climbing in a tree. I said, "good luck," and drove away with a much warmer, peaceful feeling than when I had driven into my neighborhood.

Are we all so busy, too preoccupied with life, that we can't stop for even a moment, and smell the roses? It's the small, simple things in life that really make a difference, not only for a child, but for ourselves.