One Little Big Lecture
Yesterday I gave The Little Big Things lecture as part of the Lindback Award. A student who couldn’t attend asked me how it went. I told him that I made over 200 people cry yesterday, so depending on your viewpoint that could be good or bad. But seriously though, I am finding it hard to put into words how to convey yesterday’s Little Big Things Lecture. First, I was blown away by the level of support I received doing this lecture. As I admitted in my last blog post, I was rather nervous. But this was alleviated by so many kindnesses; texts the night before, messages the morning of, hugs just before the lecture, friends who travelled hundreds of miles to attend (here’s looking at you especially, Lisa, Anthony, Keith and Charlotte), affirmations during the lecture and then so much love after. Perhaps I didn’t need to give the lecture at all as all those kind people were practicing the Little Big Things, before they knew about the Little Big Things!
That said, there was something in the air yesterday. Over 200 people from all walks of life attended in person and nearly as many joined online, and I think, for a moment there, like magic we all stood together. Since I’m a social scientist, numbers help me explain that magic: 100 amazing teachers were recognized on the interactive wall of fame. One very special teacher, got the surprise of his life being recognized on the big screen (sorry for the sneakiness Mr. Mackenzie!). Over 400 positive text messages sent in one fell swoop. One hot chocolate was gifted to a most deserving recipient (respect to Dave for choosing the amazing Debonair) and 10 more hot chocolates are on their way thanks to Saxbys. An uncountable number of happy tears were shed when Derrick and Regina were highlighted as an outstanding Little Big Things practitioners. The 3 guiding principles of giving, uplifting and validating were introduced. 10 people received $20 to pay it forward. Another 10 received the amazing “Keanu Reeves Guide to Kindness.” Hundreds of people accepted an assignment to make the world a better place. And one incredibly profound student evaluation was shared.
There was a reason I was emotional during and after the lecture. I could see people embracing and enacting the Little Big Things and that was incredibly humbling. To be honest, I don’t see myself as an expert on the Little Big Things, I am learning just like you are. And frankly, I don’t think I am even a great practitioner of them. But I do absolutely wholeheartedly believe that the Little Big Things matter. Between you and me, I got choked up because the Little Big Things explain how I had the privilege of giving that lecture yesterday. If it wasn’t for my teacher Mr. Mackenzie’s little act of uplifting encouragement, I wouldn’t be on that stage at all. And to me that’s a hell of a big thing.
From the bottom of my East End heart, thank you, everyone.