For too long I was lost. This card was given to me by a person that cared selflessly to the point that she gave herself to everything but herself.

My story is complicated, yet simple. For too long I was a hypocrite that asked people to do as I said and not as I did. I’m working to change that and become the person I want and need to be.

This card was a turning point for me as it was to me by someone who claimed I had helped change things for her. And though I’m not convinced of the long term change, I helped her without seeking any additional help back. It was a firm moment. I’ll hold onto the card until I find a similar experience. It’ll mean something strong, and firm, and meaningful when I give it away.

I have been in retail for only 4 months. Some days it is exhausting and can make you feel very unappreciated. You want to see the best in people however, somedays it is just hard when you deal with soneone who is rude, selfish or a thief. God teaches us to love one another but even the,best of us get worn out somedays. Today however was the EXCEPTION. When I met Susan she was looking for a few new dresses/skirts to go back to work in the school system. She wasn’t having any luck finding anything and I made a few suggestions. She was such a pleasure to work with and we found several outfits for her that fit her beautifully. She was so appreciative of my time helping her. I wished her well and was glad she found things that made her feel great about herself! After she checked out at the register she came to look for me to thank me one more time. I told her it was my pleasure and she handed me the 7 of hearts card. I was so touched I hugged her and thanked her. I know through this experience Susan and I will cross paths again and if not she reminded me why I went into retail in the first place. I wanted to work someplace where I could help others feel good about themselves. Today, I wasn’t just a sales associate I was a friendly advisor in a fabulous dress shop. Thank you Susan for the wonderful blessing you passed on, I can’t wait to pay it forward!

I have been in retail for only 4 months. Some days it is exhausting and can make you feel very unappreciated. You want to see the best in people however, somedays it is just hard when you deal with soneone who is rude, selfish or a thief. God teaches us to love one another but even the,best of us get worn out somedays. Today however was the EXCEPTION. When I met Susan she was looking for a few new dresses/skirts to go back to work in the school system. She wasn’t having any luck finding anything and I made a few suggestions. She was such a pleasure to work with and we found several outfits for her that fit her beautifully. She was so appreciative of my time helping her. I wished her well and was glad she found things that made her feel great about herself! After she checked out at the register she came to look for me to thank me one more time. I told her it was my pleasure and she handed me the 7 of hearts card. I was so touched I hugged her and thanked her. I know through this experience Susan and I will cross paths again and if not she reminded me why I went into retail in the first place. I wanted to work someplace where I could help others feel good about themselves. Today, I wasn’t just a sales associate I was a friendly advisor in a fabulous dress shop. Thank you Susan for the wonderful blessing you passed on, I can’t wait to pay it forward!

It was given to me at a conference but my goal is to always make those around me smile. Giving compliments will always make people smile.

My administrators are so positive, and they always let me know that I am appreciated. This is just one more moment that let me know I am valued where I work!

I am 16 years old, I’m a sophomore and I got my card from Maine Youth Leadership and it means a lot because not only is the story behind this card so great and meaningful but it shows to start something new, and to like follow your dreams and it just stood out to me so much because this story is so meaningful and it makes me want to start something new and to get noticed and help people more.

Hearing the story of Nathan helped me realize that I’m not “just a teenager.” The little things can surely make a huge difference in someone’s life and I will never forget that.