We all wonder if our words, actions and encouragement makes a difference in the lives of others.  The Nice Bike philosophy is all about connecting with others and acknowledging the efforts of others.  I received a wonderful “Nice Bike” from Cathy Ann Gregory DeJariais.  It is so sweet to hear that one chapter in my Nice Bike book helped two women attend their 45th class reunion with a renewed sense of self….

From Cathy:

“I have a little story of how you touched my cousin and me in such an amazingly random way this weekend. The class of ’74 had their 45th reunion and my cousin, Julie Blenkush Bolin, and I planned to go together, both of us dealing with “life” and some big difficulties in the past few years and feeling “less than” and “not as good as…” We were nervous even though it was a casual affair at Riverside.

We were almost ready to leave when I picked up your book on her sofa table which she hadn’t read yet…I opened it randomly and started reading and I’m telling you, it brought us both to tears.

It was the “crayon” story, about the little girl who has the huge box of crayons and ALLLLLLLLLLL the colors versus your box of five primary colors. You helped us understand that is more important to “share who we are versus compare who we are to others. It stopped us dead in our tracks along with our doubts and insecurities.

We held our heads high and thoroughly enjoyed the gathering! I had the courage to want more than small talk with classmates and had wonderfully interesting conversations when I “stepped out” and asked questions such as “how WAS your high school experience” or “how did you feel when that teacher said that to you.”

I know that you affect SO many on your circuit and even here on FB, we LOVE your videos with your dear wife AND your “room with a view.” Thank you SO much for “going the distance” from your high school days which hinted so strongly of you making such a difference in our world and here you are, touching lives ALWAYS! We were and are, SO grateful!”

Upon following up with Cathy and Julie, the gave me her permission to share their story.  When we stop trying to impress others with what you have, know or do and simply take an authentic interest in them, we make remarkable connections.

Nice Bike, Cathy & Julie!