25 bucks and a Facebook post

Being unemployed, it's hard not to fall into a funk, and I'm teetering on the edge of one. Or I was, at least, until last week. 

Last week, I got in touch with a perceptive and helpful friend who is offering me his job coaching skills, I persued a news assignment for myself, I spent quality time with friends and family, I did some networking, and to round out a great seven days, two strangers unknowingly had a huge impact on my confidence in the best way. 

My chosen career is journalism, but I am also a long-time photographer. I own a small business, selling art and taking family portraits from time to time, and I also try to stay active in the creative community. Photography is the only art medium I practice, and I'm pretty good at it. 

But I'm also good at writing. I have been since I was a kid. I always excelled in language arts and creative writing classes. It's one of the things that helped me move up professionally.

For some reason, though, it's hard for me to admit when I'm good at something. I know my strengths, but it feels braggadocios to point to those when engaging with others. It's something I'm trying to work on. 

Okay, so let's talk about my recent experiences with two random folks. 

Last Thursday, I was forwarded a Facebook post written by a gal I don't know who picked up one of the prints I had dropped off in an art-exchange box inside a local coffee shop. My friend saw the post and recognized my work and knew I needed to see it. 

The gal described being in her own funk and in need of some direction. On a whim, she popped open the art box while waiting for her coffee and was drawn to my print. I had taken the photo years ago and added a little Latin text to it. 

"Vita brevis, tempus est nunc," it reads. Or, "Life is short, the time is now." 

She said when she translated the text, she began to cry. She felt it was a message from God, guiding her in her life. Profound, right? As I read the Facebook post, I was met with head-to-toe goosebumps and tears welling up in my eyes. My message was exactly what she needed to see in that moment, and her message was exactly what I needed. 

It lifted my spirits and pushed me to update my photography website with new art. I spent the rest of the night inspired and working on new pieces.

Then Friday, out of nowhere, I got a Venmo notification that I had received a $25 payment. The name on the payment was one I'd never seen before. It was a total stranger whose only comment was a series of emojis depicting a journalist writing. 

I'm not sure where she found me, but to say I was surprised is an understatement. I was ecstatic, giddy, even. It was so flattering and meaningful.

I do have my Venmo floating around out there for people to donate to support my work while I look for employment if they're so moved, but I didn't expect it to get any traction. 

Her $25 won't just help me keep my internet turned on or fill my gas tank, it shows me there is an interest in my work — so much so that someone wants to invest in my efforts. It's more than just a little extra money in my bank account. It's a shot of adrenaline to my self-esteem.

“Life is short, the time is now.” Photo by Lisa Grouette

So, what do my confidence-boosting experiences have to do with you? Nothing...except that maybe we should all be doing what these ladies did. We should be singing the praises of those we appreciate. A volunteer or teacher you had a positive encounter with. A barista who offered insightful banter. A neighbor or friend whose endeavors are paying off. 

There's a meme that makes its way around social media from time to time: "Be kind. You have no idea what someone is going through." And, dang it...that couldn't be more true. There's just not a price tag that can be put on lifting someone up. A quick word or gesture of appreciation can make someone's day and compel them to move forward on their path.

So, if it resonates with you, shout it out.

I, myself, am moving forward with renewed confidence and a boosted sense of self-worth. And here is me, with a full heart, shouting out those two ladies. Thank you for making a stranger feel like a million dollars.

Lisa Grouette is a proud member of the Iowa Writers Collaborative, a group of Iowa writers, authors, and content producers. If you enjoy hearing from Iowa voices, please consider helping to broaden their reach with a paid subscription. Your support goes a long way.