2-26-10 Coach’s Corner

I just thought I’d share a story with you guys. I went to Back Yard Burger today on Kirby Whitten for lunch. They have an awesome grilled chicken salad, and I add an extra chicken breast. It’s delicious, but not the point of this story. I’m writing this not to make fun of anyone, or revel in someone else’s disability. There is a guy that works there named Jason. He’s not 100% I believe he may have a touch of down’s syndrome, but I’m not sure. Every time you walk in the door, he is extremely happy to see you. He tells you, “Welcome to Back Yard Burger” and will not stop until you answer him. It puts me in a good mood every time I go in there because he is so enthusiastic and happy to be there. If you dine in, he will bring the food to you on a silver platter, and repeat your order back to you and then tell you that it was his pleasure serving you. The reason why he makes me happy is because I know he actually means it! In fact his attitude about life is so contagious that when I go there I find myself dissapointed if he isn’t there. He isn’t hampered by the fact that he works at what some consider is a “lower tier” job. I truly believe he is happy to be alive. So that got me pondering…how much better would the world be if we all approached life the way Jason does? Whenever you are feeling down about something trivial in life, think about how you can change your attitude and have an effect on other people. Let’s everyone take a page out of Jason’s book and approach life with dedication and enthusiasm today. Be thankful and happy for the day and the fact that we are living, and if you are feeling down, stop by back yard burger on kirby whitten around noon on weekdays. You may make a new friend.