Stories of Kindness from Around the World

The Receptionist's Smile


--by LucyStar, posted Sep 6, 2012

Being chronically ill, I have made quite a few visits to the doctor's office.

Over the visits, I've noticed how big a difference it makes when the receptionist greets me with a smile and a pleasant tone. It just makes my entire day a little better, and the illness a little easier to bear! Plus, it puts me in a mood to smile at other people and spread the joy.

While thinking about this, I had a follow-up thought: I wish these individuals, who are only bypassers in my life, knew how much their smiles actually mean to me!

And as soon as I had the thought, I realized that it is possible-- I can tell them. :)

So I gathered some materials, sat down, and wrote cards to all the different offices-- from taxi companies to doctors' offices-- thanking them for being so pleasant and helpful. As soon as I finished, I eagerly mailed them off.

Though I won't be there to see their faces when they read the cards, I hope they feel appreciated and that the notes put smiles on their faces the way they put a smile on mine!

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Readers Comments

annjav wrote: What a thoughtful thing to do. I know it makes a big difference when staff people look at you and smile in doctor's offices.
heartofflesh wrote: Jesus says "I will heal your wounds " jeremiah 30 : 17 . God bless you.
Beleive and you will receive.Hope you believe in God.
Have a nice week !
moral12 wrote: I know that they appreciate them; great idea to share your thoughts with them.
divanurse wrote: What a differnce a smile can make in a persons day. It can brighten a day.
MakeSomeoneSmile wrote: Expressing gratitude like you did is a fantastic way to spread ripples of kindness!
starryskies wrote: Great idea! I have a chronic illness too so this story really resonates with me. I had an experience with a super-compassionate & understanding PA the other day and I'm planning on sending her a thank you as well. :)
Hasifa wrote: It really makes a difference when people take the time to say thank you.
I pray that you are well and that you may continue to smile through it all.
be blessed
TXWildflower wrote: I have a chronic illness too and i know what you mean about how it makes you feel better when being spoken to in a pleasant tone and given a smile by other people you deal with. That was an AWESOME thing you did by sending those Thank you notes. You have inspired me to do the same!
former receptionist wrote: As a former receptionist, i know that it meant the world to me when a patient or visitor took the time to say thank you for your smile. Your letters will be treasured. You can be sure of that!
tina wrote: I am also chronically ill. I agree that a smile from the receptionist sets the tone for the day. Nice nurses help so much also. I just know that your cards put a smile on their faces. I used to be a receptionist in a busy dr's office and all compliments were greatly appreciated. :))

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