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

jsmc10 wrote: This was an amazing thing to do, im sure it meant a lot to them :)
annjav wrote: I agree with you how important it is to feel recognized and greeted by office staff. And thanking them was a wonderful thing for you to do! Good for you!
cabbage wrote: That is so good of you to take the time to show them how their attitude makes a difference! I'm sure they will smile real big when they get your cards. Thank you!
StarBrite wrote: Fabulous! What a wonderful way to express your thanks. I bet your notes continue to to send your message of gratitude to these wonderful receptionists... ~StarBrite
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. :))
cindy wrote: Just imagine how your generous act of kindness trickled down, from one person to the next! You brought numerous smiles and made many peoples day! Good for you!
Ramya wrote: Dear lucystar,


You have done a wonderful act. We are normally eager to express unpleasantness if we are unhappy but do not go the extra mile to let people know how much we appreciate them.


Thank you for doing what you did and for sharing it.
mikeywho wrote: I give out smile cards to mostly strangers i see wherever igo!
denisemj wrote: That was so thoughtful and kind of you to do. Thanks for appreciating them and bringing smiles.
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!

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