Like Mardi Gras beads, the small things mean the most

So, Mardi Gras is over with all the parties and parades of the season. While standing and watching the exciting parade on Pensacola Beach, the deafening cries of the crowd for beads was like a drone of bees.

One innovative boy set up a basket on top of a golf cart with the challenge, "Bet You Can't Hit This." Some ended with a neck full of beads, others with a few, and some with none. It was heartwarming to see strangers pass along their "treasure" to small children standing with outstretched arms.

As I heard the cacophony of sounds, I couldn't help but think how important these beads had become during these moments - beads which could be bought at nearly any store in the area. But, these beads were different - they were tossed from the floats to be caught by eager hands.

Perhaps the joy was in snatching them from the hands of others, or hoping for the possibility of getting one of those "special" necklaces of beads taunted by the ones who would be throwing them.

I thought of how often the "small" things in life can bring such joy. As my mind wandered, I visualized the eyes of two people in love, separated in the crowd, who suddenly see one another, and the joy they feel. Or, a small child lost in the crowd, and who cries tears of joy when reunited with his parents, saying, "I couldn't find you!" Or, of a person who is homebound and gets an unexpected call, visit, or card from a friend. Or, a touch on the shoulder during a difficult time, when a trusted person offers encouragement.

Its not always the big selling items that make a difference in the economy that bring joy, but those "small" moments that affirm us and let us know we are recognized and valued.

Perhaps, during this season of Lent, we could enter into those kinds of activities that truly make a difference in the lives of others as well as our own.