One Saturday afternoon I strolled over to the convenience store for a newspaper. When I stepped inside, the store was quiet and dark.

"Are you open?" I asked.

The clerk shrugged. "We're open, but I can't sell anything because the register is out. Some car hit a power pole on the edge of town."

As I browsed, hoping the power would return, I couldn't help pondering the far-reaching effect one person can have on countless others. One customer needed change to buy postage for an urgent letter. The letter would be late. A gasoline customer had to drive away on a near empty tank. Many other customers entered the store and promptly left. Sales would be down. And with the equipment malfunctioning, the clerk would have to stay late and check on it. All this was happening in just one of several stores and houses affected by the power outage.

Then I wondered what effect I have on others. What do my students lose when I don't teach well? How is my family affected when I am rude or impatient? What about strangers or people in service jobs, when I am unfriendly or curt?

On the other hand, who can measure the long arm of kindness or the electric effect of cheerfulness? Today and everday, I've learned I have the power to brighten my world and make it hum if I choose to. What kind of far-reaching effect can you generate today through kindness, love, peace or joy? Try it now!

Father, help me to remember that all my acts, big & small, will affect others, sometimes in ways unknown to me. So let me always act for good.            -Daniel Schantz