Taking Notice

This post is part of Think Kit by SmallBox.

January 23, 2016 prompt: “Of Note:   What achievement – from a person, a company, a nation – captures your attention? Who did something admirable this year?” 

Taking Notice

Who or What I Notice…

The Janitor who comes in my office and dumps all the wastebaskets—even my personal basket. The Manager who takes the time to wipe off the menus between customers, when she could have delegated the task to someone else. My Service Advisor at the dealership, who always makes sure the Courtesy Van Driver comes in early when I have an appointment, to ensure  I still arrive on time at work. The grocery store Cashier who asks if I found everything, takes note of what I said I didn’t find, tells the manager, and then the Manager calls me to tell me they now carry the item.  Wait Staff  at multiple restaurants I frequent  who remember I like DDP (Diet Dr Pepper) and bring it to my table as I’m being seated—even when I haven’t been there in months! (I tip really well, often dine alone, and homestead while I read and linger over my meal—one, if not all, of those actions make me sort of memorable.)

But I also notice the people who do random acts of kindness—not directed at me…

The Supervisor who listens to her employees when they have a suggestion or complaint, takes it further, gives credit where due, and looks after her employees. The Physician, Nurse, Social Worker, Aide, Therapist, Dietitian, etc., who takes time to listen to the patient, involving them in their care decisions and plans. The Shopper who straightens merchandise that’s out of line, or picks up a piece of trash off the floor or parking lot and tosses it in the trashcan. The Driver that allows others a chance to get into their lane in front of them. The Hair Stylist that takes time with an elderly customer to show her how to style her hair so the thinning isn’t as obvious. The Teenager who opens the door for a date, a harried mom with kids in tow, or just the next person in line.  The Child who listens to the war stories of a Veteran. The Teacher who spends countless personal money and time making her classroom inviting or ensuring all her students have access to the resources they need. The Neighbor who calls to check on a shut-in.

What I do when I take notice…

I tell someone.  Sometimes I tell the person, “I saw what you did.” Or “Nice job!” Or simply, “Thank you.” Sometimes it involves telling their boss. Sometimes I leave a larger tip. No matter how big or small the action I see, I try to acknowledge what they did in some way. I try to let the person know they did a good job, or performed a kind act, and that it was noticed—and appreciated.