Charlie Magdaleno: Blog

I'm busy on a studio project this week, so this week's entry will be on the short, but hopefully sweet (or salty, he he...ugh), side.

  The other day, I was just working on some new song arrangements when my mom brought me a present out of the blue- a box of sourdough pretzels.  She said, "Hey I got these for you.  I know you like pretzels and these are sourdough so they should be pretty good."  I said "thank you" and she just went on her way.  

  Initially, I didn't give it much thought outside of the notion that it was very sweet and thoughtful of her.  But then I started thinking about the whole process that was truly involved.

  She was at the store, shopping for whatever she had been looking for, came across these pretzels, thought of me, and then bought them, a completely unnecessary purchase, for me.

  I know this is my mom we're talking about, as well as a mere box of pretzels, but it's truly the thought that counts and the thought that I'm trying to make a point about.

  With all of the self-promoting and self-centered behavior that goes on on our so called "social networks," on reality TV and so forth, it feels like these days more than ever we're closed off to anything and any thought process but what benefits ourselves.

  That being said, the next time someone, be it a parent, sibling, friend, co-worker, romantic partner, or whatever goes out of their way to do something nice for you, or shows sensitivity or thoughtfulness in your favor, really take the time to genuinely thank them and appreciate their gift.  This person, outside of being in an interaction with you, thought of you.  Of all the things going on in their lives, in their day, and on their mind- they thought of YOU.  Not only did they think of you, but they thought enough OF you, to want to do something special for you.

  Maybe your neighbor was out washing their car and offered to wash yours in addition.  Maybe your favorite barista, who knows you on a first name basis and remembers the names of your husband/wife and children, knows exactly what to get you when you come in, which is usually tea, but today it's coffee 'cause you're in a hurry and you're always in a hurry when you have a big presentation.

  Whatever the case may be, do recognize and pay attention to those who give just to give, those who go the extra mile to get to know you, and to help you.  They're definitely some of the special ones.

  And of course, don't forget to do something thoughtful for someone every once in a while yourself.  I know I'm not the only pretzel fan around, and you might just makes someone's day.