OK. Back on cycle.
The Talmud says that we each experience three names in the course of our lifetimes. But with the Facebook glut of "What'S Your ---------- Name?" I have already surpassed my three. I am (Travoltified) Johannes Shlomba or Jess Colezan; (Steam Punk) Lord Ambrose Wakedale; (Superhero) The Blue Plaid Window and (Star Wars) Conjo Banew.
Then there are all the tests one can take to determine a wide range of things, from the decade you should have been born in, to the movie star who most clearly expresses your personality. Today I discovered my True Life Motto - “Be the reason someone smiles today.”
That, I think, is part of the meaning of today's Telushkin piece. When you give tzedakah, suggests Telushkin, you should look the person in the eye and say, “May God bless you.” More important than the money is the eye contact. In that moment of connection, you create a little bit holiness.
Two years at Sbux has, time and again, shown me the truth of this. Create a little contact. It goes a long way. It's no more difficult to smile than it is to be grumpy. As a result of a little contact, I’ve had some wonderful conversations.
“Be the reason someone smiles today.” I can support that simple idea.
Until tomorrow, I am, Lord Ambrose Wakedale
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