Things We Forget

One time, I met Barack Obama by proxy. It was during his campaign for 2008, and my friend spoke to him in a restaurant across the street from Lambeau Field,…

I met an artist who said creation is an act of survival. I understood that with depth.

I met myself again after a long time. That might be the most important meeting of all.

I met a mother who raised her kids alone. Her determination could move mountains.

When I was an older kid, I met the kayaker won got a silver medal in the Olympics. There’s still a picture of me that exists somewhere with me smiling…

I met a bartender who remembered my name and made my day lighter. She’s not famous, but she does remind me that small kindnesses are big things.

I met a student who worked tirelessly toward their dreams. To them, focus was its own form of fame.

I met a volunteer who had more courage in their kindness than most people have in their voice.

I met an famous athlete who said, “Champions are made when no one’s watching.” That changed the way I work.

I met a comedian who turned pain into laughter. To me, that’s alchemy.