It never ceases to amaze me how fast “routines” change, how the ordinary turns into a moment of encouragement, how much everyone needs a friend.

Each morning I send out an uplifting message, sometimes with an inspirational photo or a g-rated cartoon. I’ve been doing that for years, not to preach but to let my family and friends know I am thinking about them, even if for just a moment. The inspirational quote was from former NFL running back Tony Dorsett, “To succeed, you need to find something to hold on to, something to motivate you, something to inspire you.” The meme is attached.

I’ve had feedback over the years. But this morning, I HAD FEEDBACK!

I think for the first time ever, as I started sharing the message, I started receiving multiple messages back. Normally it’s a thumb up or a smiley face or a simple “Thanks.” Today it was actual words from not one, not two, not three, but four friends near and far responding back. At one point, I was engaged in three messenger conversations, almost simultaneously. It seemed I would respond with a “what’s up?” when the laptop would ding with another message from someone else.

The responses focused on their feeling of being alone. For a variety of reasons, they felt alone. For whatever reason, the message hit them where they were at the moment. One said she didn’t feel anyone was there. Another said it was a reminder that we are never alone. Another said she really needed the post today. Yet another thanked me for being a listening ear. Each time, I reached back out to them to, well, just listen … to let them know that I am there with them during the good times and bad times {although I never ask specifics} … to softly preach to them, “You will not walk alone” … to assure them I daily think about them and pray for them … to reinforce the notion they are more than a friend in name only; their names are etched on my heart.

I don’t do it for the platitudes. I do it because of the Light I try to reflect. I know I never walk alone. I want them — and everyone else I come into contact with —  to know they will never walk alone either.

THOUGHT TO REMEMBER: Happiness comes from being who you actually are instead of who you think you are supposed to be. — Shonda Rhimes