When I was 7 years old, other kids used to snicker at my socks.
While changing out my shoes for a basketball game, I had a big hole in my sock.
The socks were hand-me-down socks from dad.
My family had to use most clothing down to the threads.
After the basketball game, I remember one of the players walking up to me and saying, “Want to hang out?”
I said, “Um. Sure.”
I forgot about the shame in a split second and felt like a cool kid again.
It took me decades to figure out that he put his “cool kid” status on the line.
He encouraged me to keep showing up.
And he didn’t lose any friends in the process.
That’s one of my favorite memories.
The thing is, you can do it for others in your network of family and friends.
Lend a hand.
Lend an ear.
Be the hope for others.
It will never ruin your status or success.
