Many years ago (23 to be exact) I was living in the city and I met these Irish kids who moved in across the street from me for the summer.

Eighteen of them moved into a 3 bedroom apartment! It was close quarters obviously but they all got along. They were loving and kind to each other. They were always checking in and supporting each other. They had a sense of compassion that I had never seen before.

I fell in love with each and every one of them. I liked them. I liked the way they lived their lives. I liked the way they lead with their hearts.

I hired many of them to work for me and helped others find jobs. My brother and I gave them extra furniture and pots and pans that we didn’t need. They became like family. Every year for about 5 years they would send more Irish over to us and I would hire them, help them find apartments, and take care of them like they were my own kids.

They made me a better person by being such good people.

I was reflecting recently after one of the Irish girls was in town with her Mom about why that time in my life was so special. I think they helped me to shape the person I wanted to become and through their kindness I was even more kind. Through their love I was more loving. Through their compassion I was more compassionate and through their grace I learned grace. They were the best friends I’ve ever known. They taught me friendship on another level that most Americans don’t ever get to experience.

Last night I was watching the last episode of a show I LOVED called Better Things and the daughter said this to the Mom.

“You’re nice. You’re a good person. You make people feel comfortable. You help people. I like you. I like the way you live your life.”

And I cried.

That’s what I want to be known for: for being nice, for being a good person, for making people feel good, for helping and for living my life true to those values.

What do you want to be known for? #soulhappy