"It's the little things in life that help society move forward"

It’s the little things in life that help us progress, that push society move forward. Giving back isn’t just about volunteering at a hospital or soup kitchen, it's about the little things done on a daily basis to help others. If you think you can't make a difference, think again.

Many times at the restaurant, I’ve done things for customers that go well above and beyond any job requirement. I cannot tell you how many people bring their problems with them to eat. That, in my mind, is a subtle cry for help. At one point, a recovering alcoholic was frequenting the restaurant almost daily. For months, I witnessed his dramatic ups and downs. He would relapse and come into the restaurant, drunk, and cause a ruckus. He would stumble in, try to place a slurred order, and promptly start yelling because his order wasn't ready yet. More than anything, I wanted to tell him never to return to the restaurant. My dad even wanted to call the police on him, but I didn't have it in me to kick this man to the curb. I knew from previous conversations that he had nobody in his life; most of his family had gone and he had no support system. He was also computer illiterate but needed letters typed and faxed in regards to his problem. On top of all that, he was looking for work. So I continued to let him come in—as long as he behaved himself—and I helped with each and every thing he needed.

I think having someone to talk to helped this man get by. I think my help staved off the relapses. Ultimately, I'd like to think that I gave this man the smallest bit of hope.