Psst...

I don’t what was up today. Teddy Bear Man approached the desk. He was overcome by a pretty young woman sitting near him. He was smiling and waving to her, but unable to speak well. He kept apologizing, a little embarrassed.

“You’re fine,” I said. “No problem.”

“You always treat me so well,” he said, suddenly articulate. “You remind me of my Aunt Renee. That’s why I come to you so much. Why is that? Do you understand where I’m coming from?”

I was sort of stunned. How do sum up your personal philosophy for someone who may melt down in the next three seconds?

“I just think everyone is worthwhile,” I said.

He pointed his finger at me. “That sounds like something my Aunt Renee would say,” he said. “If she were here, she’d probably shake your hand and say ‘God bless you for treating my Boo-boo so good.’”

“Thank you,” I said, and he walked away.

Not ten minutes later, the head of Maintenance came up. He stops and says, “Hi,” and “Have a good day,” pretty often. Today he said, “I just wanted to tell you that you always seem very professional, and from my point of view, very helpful to the patrons. I wanted you to know that,” and he moved on.

It surprised me. You never know who’s watching you, I guess. It sort of made me feel like a piano was going to fall on me – people saying nice things out of the blue, like it was some kind of eulogy or something.

Can I just say it to you? You are doing a good job. You are helping people who may never let you know, but who appreciate your kindness. When you treat people with respect, other people notice. Someday, that smile you give someone will come back to you.

Like now. Don’t worry – no pianos.

I just wanted you to know.

And, of course - pass it on.

Comments

[Sara]

Thanks for the great post FGL. Uplifting as always. Consider it done.

[michelle]

Aww...glad that people are giving you kind feedback in return for the kindness you've shown them. :D I wish I could be mentored by you, Ms. Feel Good Librarian!

[feelgoodlibrarian]

Good for you, Sara! You go!

You are so sweet, Michelle! Thank you!

FGL

[Wendy]

And this is why I enjoy reading your blog so much. I love your positive attitude and your genuine caring for even the most challenging of patrons. You have a great perspective.

[Rose]

Dear Feelgood,

I want to thank you for posts like this one...posts that show that librarians do make a difference in people's lives. It is so easy to become depressed because of irrational coworkers and patrons, funding issues, job prospects, and more. I am five months away from getting my library degree, and I hope I can be a librarian like you when I grow up...one who sees the bright side and who remembers why she heeded the calling in the first place.

[Shannon]

Hi FGL,

I LOVE your blog and wonderful zen perspective. THANKS. It helps to feel good. I suggest reading your blog to all my students as we need more true happy in the workplace. shannon

[Kr]

Welcome back! You were missed.