Reach Out, like far out dude.

About a year and a half ago, I challenged myself to reach out to a complete stranger and converse for at least 5 minutes every day. The inspiration for this began after a stranger reached out to me days prior. I was having an awful day trudging about for no apparent reason, when a stranger at a gas station asked how my day was. The exchange was brief, unexpected, and startled me a bit.
                                            I paused a moment before answering, "Fine, and you?" 
                                           The stranger responded, "It's a beautiful day to be alive."

We said our goodbyes and parted ways not thinking much about the exchange, but those 7 words jogged endlessly in my mind later that night. 

"It's a beautiful day to be alive."


This became the phrase I adopted into my life, and the phrase I live to spread. The 20 something seconds that stranger shared with me would forever change my perspective on life. We live in a world filled with never-ending stimulus, stressors, piles of work, fun, friends, pain, deadlines, what-have-you, and oftentimes get caught up in the chaos of life. It's important to take a step back and be reminded of all the wonderful things and privileges we have to be thankful for. Most importantly- the gift of being alive. Every day on this earth is something so unique, precious, such a great opportunity for learning- from the environment, within yourself, amongst others, from books, etc, and sharing the wealth of knowledge and experiences you've gained with the world around you. Things will go wrong at times, decisions may lead to unfavorable outcomes, we'll make mistakes, but that's OK. That's what makes life so beautiful, because no matter how impossible, how painful, how awful and awkward life gets, it goes on. Whether you decide to suffer and trudge along in face of defeat, or put on your boxing gloves and tackle life with a small pep talk and positive attitude, it's all up to you to decide -and you have the power to change your mind at any time. Everything is mind over matter. Prep yourself mentally, surround yourself with good influences, be a good influence to others, and you'll be prepared to conquer any challenges you face. 

The lasting impact this stranger's words had on me made me realize YOU have the power to influence someone else's life. You have the power to reach out and inspire, but first you must lead by example. 

I challenge each and every one of you to reach out to a complete stranger and converse for atleast 5 min. each and everday. 

Whether it be while you're waiting to check out at HEB, waiting to pick up your prescription, ordering coffee at Starbucks, just do it!!!! It'll be a bit uncomfortable and intimidating at first, but I promise you it's completely worth it. What have you got to lose? If it goes terrifyingly awkward, odds are you won't ever run into that person again. If it goes well (which I know it will), then you've just made a positive impact in someone else's life, gained a bit more insight, or perhaps even shared a few laughs, the possibilities are endless. 

Why live in a world amongst strangers when you can live in a world amongst friends?

Infinite Love,
Tong-Tong <3