I always say you’re just a Hello away from new friends and adventures. Whenever I see someone in a Veteran hat, I always thank them for their service. Meet my new friend James. He is 82 and just getting back to Memphis from Pitsburgh. I see him waiting by the baggage claim and I felt moved to give him a yellow pin from my purse. We begin speaking and I share as the granddaughter of Holocaust Survivors I’m extremely grateful for his service and that my family would not be in this country without people like him. I smiled and said, “you matter.”

James began to tear up and said it felt good to know people still think what he did mattered. He was in 20s when he went off to Vietnam. He said even though he was older than most of the soldiers who were 18 and 19, he was scared. I presented James with the pin and explained that the yellow is to bring awareness to the 59 Israelis still being held in Gaza. We wear these pins to remind people of the situation and to bring them home! James grabbed the pin and emotionally said it would be his honor to wear it. We had a long hug and spoke about his travels to Pitsburgh. When he told me he had 8 grandchildren, I smiled wide and said I have another present for you! He got so excited while his daughter couldn’t believe her Dad was getting to much attention. I signed a copy of my book The Girl Who Said Hello to Everyone and wished him an early Happy Father’s Day. I explained the book was inspired by the loss of my Dad, and that no matter how tough the trip, what a gift to know your grandchildren.

We continued speaking and I asked him what’s an important lesson you’ve learned in your life? He said if you can be satisfied with who you are and what you have that is the secret to life. He explained you can always want more, but just know there will always be someone who has less than what you have! He went on to say that things will never bring you happiness, as he smiled at his daughter he confidently said “just family.” I gave James one last hug and thanked his daughter for pushing him around that day.

Though I gave the gifts, his presence was the true highlight of my day. I like to think we are surrounded by people who carry messages or stories we’re meant to absorb. How often we miss out on these mundane moments that grow into meaningful conversations and connections due to distractions. Thats the magic of the human experience, especially in airports! Take the time to engage with others, especially the older generation they deserve it.

My non profit is on a mission to give out one million books and journals to students of all learning and socioeconomic backgrounds. This week, I’m excited to be in Memphis for a special tour giving out over 1300 books and speaking at three schools. While the journey has been hard, it’s little conversations like these that remind us all to ignore the thorns and smell the roses. We have so much to be grateful for, never underestimate how much your presence makes the world a beautiful place. It’s better with you in it!!