Sometimes I can't contain myself.

Sometimes on Saturday afternoon, after I have already mailed my yellow envelope for the week, I can't contain my excitement.  I might be standing at Matthew's soccer game when I periodically look around at other moms and dads thinking, "Do you have any idea what I've already done today?"  Or I'm standing in line at the supermarket and I thinking to myself, "Sure, you and I might be standing in the same line, but I'm pretty sure I am way more excited about this day than you are."

I get giddy with excitement knowing I have placed my anonymous letter of gratitude in the mail and that my one letter might be followed up with a flood of mail from people all over the country.  I daydream about the reaction of the deserving person who, for one week, will unexpectedly receive countless yellow envelopes, each filled with words kindness.  I daydream about their reaction, yet, not knowing reminds me this is intended to be a selfless act, not dependent on recognition or accolades.  

I can't contain my excitement because I cannot believe how simple and how gratifying this one little weekly ritual can be.  I can't believe I am privy to this totally inexpensive and totally simple key to happiness and that more people haven't discovered my secret.  You know my secret, but you're on the inside track.

This week's recipient has not discovered the Yellow Envelope Project yet, but I get the sense she would understand, exactly, the feeling I am describing.  Look at what her nominator had to say:

"Lola is one of the most generous and talented people I know. While I have only known her for a couple years, I am constantly amazed by her. I truly believe Lola wakes up each morning and instantly begins thinking of others - something you don't often see today. She is truly selfless. Examples of her selflessness include rocking babies in the neo-natal unit every Tuesday (her favorite day of the week), offering her home to others in need, even if she does not know how long they will stay, and dropping everything to help a friend in need. My father-in-law recently had heart surgery and when he was first rushed to the emergency room, I arrived at the hospital and found Lola already with him and my mother-in-law. She has gone above and beyond for my family and I know she would--and has--done this for others. A couple of people have abused Lola's generousity and despite this, she continues to give her time and energy to others. I only wish there were more "Lolas" in the world. What a world we would live in!" 

Our nominator got it right.  What a world we would live in if there were more people like Lola.

You're like Lola, otherwise you wouldn't be here checking out this post.  You are.

So, pick up a pen and a notecard and follow through on this act of generosity the way Lola would.  It's simple.  

Write Lola a short note commenting on how remarkable it is that she has the heart and the energy to be so generous with so many people.  Help her see her gift for making people feel cared for.  Thank her.  Remind her that her corner of the world is a kinder and more compassionate place because of her contributions.  Maybe even help Lola see how her daily acts of kindness create ripples across the country.

They do, because if they didn't you wouldn't be sending her a note.

Once written, seal the note in a yellow envelope (or a white envelope decorated with yellow stickers or markers) and place the words, "Yellow Envelope Project" in place of a return address.  Finally, commit to mailing it to the address listed below sometime before next Saturday when we meet again to recognize another deserving person.

Shining off until Monday...