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I have been "touched" by a similar experience...I was about 18yrs old and visiting my mom at her job for the first time. Walking past a few office desks, everyone was smiling and saying hi, but this one person who had his back to me turned around, and with a large, smiling face stood tall and extended his hand out to me and delivering a strong and compassionate handshake said, "It's nice to meet you" There was great warmth in his eyes and gesture. I knew at that moment that it was the best impression I ever received from a stranger. I only hope that I can deliver a hint of that kind gesture every time I extend my own hand.
Posted almost 4 years ago by Adam T from Long Island, NY

Great lesson to learn...great lesson for life!
Posted about 4 years ago by Kirthishri M.V. from Bangalore, India

A brilliant touch to respect.
Posted about 4 years ago by Anam K. from London, England

Thank you for sharing "the lesson of life." If somebody does something wrong, then have the compassion to point them in the right direction. (Words of wisdom by a 9 year old.)
Posted about 4 years ago by Patrick H. from Illinois, USA

Indeed, lessons are cool.
Posted over 4 years ago by Bob M. from Uzbekistan

Wow, this was pretty nice to read.
Posted over 4 years ago by Sharon from Michigan, USA

These are very small things in life but very useful in our lives
Posted almost 5 years ago by reg from

The little things can mean so much. I will always remember a saying my Grandma used to use,
"If you see someone without a smile, Give them ONE of YOURS". I have given many away in my lifetime and have always been rewarded with one back. What a great feeling just one smile can give.
Posted almost 5 years ago by Cathie from Sydney

The Handshake

This little story I'm about to tell you happened when I was about 11 years old, and I'll never forget it.

I was at my friend Jenny's house after school one day, and we were doing (or not doing!) homework. While I was there a friend of Jenny's mom came over to visit.

I don't remember her name or even what her face looked like. I just remember her hands, her voice and the lesson she taught me.

I can still see her hand reaching out for mine in our introduction. They were so beautiful, I thought; rich, dark skin perfectly complemented by the tangerine colored polish on her nails. Then I heard her saying, (and not at all in a condescending manner) "Oh no, that is NOT how you shake hands. Let me show you how."

After that, I just remember her voice explaining the importance of a good handshake, conveying a positive sense of self, looking the other person in the eye, making that first moment matter...I think in that exchange I first understood respect.

I respected her for taking the time to teach me about one of those subtleties in life. I appreciated the fact that she didn't talk down to me because I was 11 or because I didn't know something. And so because of that I felt somewhat respected, I mean in the way she treated me. It felt good to be talked to like a real person, and not like whatever the general perception of an 11-year-old would be. I also appreciate her instilling the idea that if someone doesn't know or isn't aware of something, have compassion and point him or her in the right direction; don't be afraid to share your knowledge.

I think of her every time I meet someone new...and I'm so thankful for her little lesson.

Story was submitted anonymously

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The Foundation for a Better Life began as a simple idea to promote positive values. We believe that people are basically good and just need a reminder. And that the values we live by are worth more when we pass them on.

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