What determines or makes a person extraordinary? Moments ago, during her introduction on stage, just before she opened her mouth, she was so ordinary.
This woman, Susan Boyle, who has lived on the planet for 47 years, who took care of her mother until a year or so ago, appears to be the polar opposite of how we live today. In the world of wearing makeup at 10 years of age, photo re-touching, Botox and augmentations, in the world of me-me-me (and always) me first, Susan represents a throwback to a different time; to a different cultural model.
Are we so cynical and uneasy simply because of her looks? Are we embarrassed because someone ‘like that’ shouldn’t be on stage? Do we snicker because of her broad shoulders and natural colored hair? Perhaps. Yet, within seconds after she begins to sing on Britain’s Got Talent < http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY> we all immediately begin to transform our immediate judgments to see and recognize her beauty; her extraordinariness. All of us, each and every one of us from all walks of life, have our own ‘Susan Boyle’ moments.
We know - and remember - what it was really like to be laughed at. We know - and remember - how we tried to fit in. We know – and remember- our everyday ordinariness. How life or a job just seemed stuck, fixed and permanent.
We also remember the time we did something, something simple or big, for another, for a stranger or for a community. We experienced the ‘other side’ of a Susan Boyle transformative moment. When we were recognized. When someone thanked us. When we sacrified our life in the line of duty. When we simply held a door open for a stranger. Or, stayed a few extra moments and chilled with our aging grandmother. When, during rush hour, we pulled over on the highway and changed a flat tire for a young couple. Or, when we made 30 million people weep with our voice. In one moment, the difference we made shifted other's experience of us from ordinary to extraordinary.
We actually revel and delight in seeing others’ moments. Whether it’s private or on national TV. It inspires us and gives us the goosies.
I assert there are moments everyday, in all of our rush and resignation; where all we have to do is LOOK. Breathe and look. And we will see the extraordinary Susan Boyle in others and in ourselves.
Drive Your Bargain,
Anne
www.twitter.com/annefleming
