Gently Caring…

The one thing that I enjoy doing is people watching. You can see so much of the world, if you just stop long enough to watch people and how they react to one another. I find that you see the truth of an individual’s character when you watch them when they don’t realize it and today I saw a thing of true beauty…

I went to Kroger with my mother and decided to wait in the car as she went in to pick up an item. It was silly for me to go in for what was only going to be a few minutes. As I sat there in the car, I watched a gentleman assisting a lady from their car, to her wheelchair. Now you may wonder what’s beautiful about something so simple, but I promise you that what I saw was nothing short of breathtaking.

It wasn’t merely the care that he took to assisting her to the wheelchair (and there certainly was that), but the gentleness in his expression. He helped her to the seat and even retrieved something from the trunk; the whole time with clear concern for her well-being. There also was a gentle calmness with all that he did, getting everything in order before wheeling her into the store. Never seeming “put out” for having to assist, but like a deep caring respect for his companion and simply glad to help.

We all know that this type of behavior should be something we see every day, but sadly it isn’t the case. So often people look at our senior citizens as if they’re a burden to society; when in fact, if they would slow down, these individuals would see that our older generations are a gift with so much to offer. They hold the keys to our past, with amazing stories from their lives and times we’ll never see. It only takes a little time and kindness on our parts.

We should all show the caring and kindness of this gentleman… It would make this world a much warmer and happier place. So, my challenge to you… Go out and show some kindness to a senior in your life, show them that they are important and that they are worth the effort. It will likely be something magical you get in return.

“The years teach much which the days never knew.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

40+ Ladies, Have You “Got” the Look???

Last week I was watching individuals going into a local job fair and was surprised to see how some showed up (Son, in the Motley Crue shirt, were you serious?). Generally, most of the men did okay, but some of women should put a tad more effort forth before complaining about the lack of response. I guarantee you that “Buffy” or “Muffy,” you know, the twelve year olds that you’re competing against are going to be dressed to kill. You need to have “the look” that will show that you’re a serious competitor and ready to get to work.

Having a contemporary look doesn’t mean “over the top” fashion, so keep this in mind. Dressing like a clown doesn’t help your cause, either (think “Mimi” syndrome). It also doesn’t mean that you need a small fortune to pull it off. There are some wonderful online outlets, as well as incredible consignment shops out there where you can purchase designer clothing for a fraction of retail. I’ve found eBay is wonderful for this and have purchased many designer fashions from sellers there.

Also keep a professional looking hair style and soft make up (talking to the ladies here, guy liner isn’t recommended for anyone other than a rock star). It’s not as difficult as it might feel to pull a great professional look together, just takes a little planning.

A few simple tips that go a long way:

1) Go with the classics… A classic suit can easily be accessorized with a scarf or excellent and simple jewelry.

2) Quality and style lasts, where high fashion is fleeting.

3) The right cut and a little color can completely change your look to exceptional.

4) It’s better to purchase a couple quality outfits that last than several disposable ones.

5) Wear shoes without scuffs and obvious wear.

6) Keep your makeup natural looking and understated.

Following these simple guidelines will help you present the best possible image at job fairs and interviews. It will also work wonders for your confidence!

“Fashions fade, style is eternal.” Yves Saint Laurent