On a recent flight home from the Midwest, I had time to ponder and reflect on all that had transpired in my life over the past few days.  I marveled at the impact one can have on you by just being there.

On Saturday, I, along with my wife and children traveled to eastern Washington to attend my son’s graduation from Washington State University. 

Four years had flown by and here I sat in the auditorium of the performing arts center watching five hundred students garbed in their black robes lining up to receive the read leather-bound diploma folder.

While it was easy to get caught up in all the excitement surrounding me, it was however the sight of the people filling the seats around me that caused my heart to overflow.  there beside my immediate family was my sister, brother-in-law, nieces and nephews.  they had traveled many miles to be there to show love and support to my son.  That level of caring is priceless.

Two days later, I found myself surrounded by people who had traveled from all over the United States to this rural South Dakota church.  They had come to pay their last respects to my aunt.  The church sanctuary was filled to capacity and overflowing out into the nearby dining hall.

This small in statute, gentle in manner, farmer’s wife and mother to eleven had lived a simple life of God, faith and family, and yet had touched so many.

I, in my mind, had traveled this distance to be here with her family thinking I maybe could be of some comfort to them in their grief and to say my final farewell to one who had loved me and whose parting was going to leave a gaping hole in my heart.  Very soon,  I realized it was her family and community that were showing me unconditional love.  they repeatedly expressed their gratitude to all of us who had traveled to their area.  We were overwhelmed by the thankfulness towards us all.

Rarely do we realize until we are impacted in a big way, how it is truly the little things we do for others that make the greatest impression.

In this busy life we bring upon ourselves it is easy to forget the value of a hug or just listening.

During this season of graduations, weddings and other celebrations, I encourage you to make the time to attend when invited.  Your presence is important and who knows, it may be you who will be rewarded beyond measure.

Bringing clean water to America… Rick the Plumber