Have you ever been stunned to meet someone who can have an immediate impact on your life?

I have long subscribed to the theory that anybody you encounter in your life can provide an educational opportunity for you. We often think of these “educators” as chief executives, politicians, celebrities or media people when in fact every one of us has knowledge that will benefit someone.

I was vividly reminded of this yesterday. Filled with concern over a personal matter I stopped into the Town Square Diner in Wharton, New Jersey for lunch and was seated at Josephine’s table. Josephine’s greeting to me included the customary “how are you” question, which I did not answer with the customary “okay”, and in fact told her actually how exactly my day was going. She then took the time to tell me of her own story in the realm I described. She offered reassurance which was much more than lip service or platitudes. Her words resonated with me immediately and reassured me like a warm blanket on a cold morning.

I never met Josephine before and in fact don’t recall ever stopping into this eatery prior to yesterday. Though it would be easy for some to bypass someone in her position, I have learned all too well from previous situations in my life that EVERY and ANYBODY can provide you with pearls of wisdom that can have a dramatic and positive impact on your life.

Have you ever been given insight from an unlikely and unexpected source?