the stories of others

In any one day, each of us has multiple interactions with other human beings. Unless we live alone, stay in the house and don't answer the phone, email or use any technology, it is inevitable.
Some of these interactions are neutral and quickly forgotten. Some are nasty and leave us with an unpleasant aftertaste that, if bad enough, can linger for days, weeks, months, forever.  
Some of the interactions are positive and warm, and affect us as much as the nasty ones, the only difference being the flavour of the aftertaste.
Both nasty and positive interactions can be transforming. Who we were before the interaction, and who we are afterwards, is altered. The connection with the other person has changed who we are in some way: our perspective, attitude, direction.
We know this is true because of the stories we tell others about the experience. The stories can last for decades.
If we look at it from the other side - our own impact -  there is a huge opportunity. Each of us is powerful in the interactions we are a part of. Each day, every day. What is it that you want to contribute to the people you see or talk to today? Your interaction could become part of their life story. How do you want that to go?