The little things in life

I’m a simple man with simple tastes and simple likes. I don’t expect much out of life, and I usually don’t get much.
 

What I like the most, however, and what I’ve come to expect is the little things in life.

I don’t know why, but I’ve always preferred the simple little things to major events. Not that I didn’t enjoy high school graduation, college graduation, the birth of my sisters, my first kiss, my first car, etc. Those things just don’t come around very often. So I’ve learned to appreciate the little everyday things.

Now that I think about it, I only enjoyed the birth of my second sister. The first one ruined the sweet deal I had going as an only child in which I got all the attention.

A door held open for me, a smile or nod in the street by a passerby, not getting run over in a parking lot. That stuff is surprisingly pleasant. Especially as a city kid where you’re lucky if a stranger doesn’t mug you in the street. Kidding, kidding! That’s only in Oakland. 

On the flip side, I am easily offended by people who don’t do these things. Someone cutting me off, closing a door in front of me, making me rush to the store to buy one thing when I’ve already been to the store, agencies failing to notify me when I owe money (those last couple were oddly specific, wouldn’t you say?) I take little offenses like that rather seriously. 

Which is why I’ve always gone out of my way to do the little things for other people. At home, visiting someone, or in public, the one thing I never want to do is cause an affront – with the exception of religious fundamentalists, Seahawk fans, and anybody from Los Angeles. I always want to insult those people.

Facebook has made this habit simultaneously better and worse. I like wall posts from friends, messages, and I like “likes.” On the other hand, something that gets no response is a bit of a letdown – especially since half my statuses and whatnot are trying to be funny. Luckily I don’t have that same reaction to this blog, because I already know nothing will come of this (he said before becoming a multi-millionaire blogger).

But the stuff I like the most is the little things that happen with friends. I’ve never been one for parties or extravagant events because I’m a loser. No, not that! It’s because I prefer the little things. I prefer the quieter, intimate moments with people (and because I’m a loser). Seeing a movie, a meal together, a small gathering with close friends, someone going the extra mile to give me a ride, or just talking.

I've always tried to help my friends without asking for anything in return. I feel small gestures like that solidify a friendship more than anything.

Just the invitation to do something, like to a party or movie or something, goes a long way for me. Even if I don’t actually go, the thought is greatly appreciated. I like being thought of, I guess. I like having my existence acknowledged, albeit in small ways.

Remember that as you go about your lives. Remember to do the little things – for yourself and for others. You never know how much the simplest gestures might mean to someone. Maybe even to yourself.