Many years ago, but not so far away, there was a sparkling bright-eyed teenager named Tricia.
Now Tricia had all the makings of a princess – social butterfly, stylish, talented. The kind of princess who could hold court with the learned and wise, the young and the old, the rich and the poor. Now, how did I know that? For one thing she was a nominee (or something of that sort) for Miss Oklahoma. I really don’t know all that much about it. But I knew what my eyes could see and what my ears could see. She was beautiful and she could sing.
However, I also saw something that went far beyond that. Although she could have been the leader of any clique, maybe she was; I don’t know that either. But she definitely was not “clique-ish.”
At this point, let me tell you about another character. He was another member of the young crowd in our church. At least he was in that age range. He was not impressive; nothing wrong with him, but just not impressive. Now a lot of guys are like that, at least they think they are. But this young man just didn’t fit it. As the groups would get together to go out after church, he didn’t go. My heart just sort of hurt for him. You probably think I’m going to say that Tricia was the princess who kissed the frog and he became her prince. No. It wasn’t that. But I did see Tricia take time to give him special attention on more than one occasion. Sat on the pew and chatted a bit. Smiled. Prayed. Just little things. I’ve never forgotten.
I saw Tricia last month after more than forty years. I hugged her and told her this story and how it had been my memory of her from that long time ago.
I asked if I could use her picture and relate this tiny insight into what makes a princess, a Princess. That makes a sweet and humble girl a Miss America in my eyes.
Tricia, I know you made that young man feel pretty special, because you made me feel pretty special, too. Thanks for the hugs. Thanks for the smile. Thanks for letting me tell this bit of your story.
Thanks for being a Princess.
Sweet aroma 
We often don’t realize how profound an effect we have on other people. This post inspires me to make that extra effort to encourage those who may be overlooked, and not be noticed by the popular people in their world.
We never know who is watching – and judging Jesus by our actions.
A wonderful story. 🤗
I thought it would be a story that contains several lessons in life – lessons that lead to a successful life for oneself and for others.
Mission accomplished. 😉
Aww! Sweet story! Yay for the Tricia’s in this world!
Yes. There could be lots more if they just realized their true worth and influence. The entertainment give such poor characters for our young girls to model.
Wonderful story.
Thanks, Pranab. It was such a joy to see Tricia again. That happened at our school reunion a couple of weeks ago. She was a student there when Sammy was teaching there.
Love it! What a wonderful story. 🙂
I’m glad you liked it. I’m sure it set some bells off for you. Gave you another subject to “expound” upon. 😀 Here’s one for you. Can one have that kind of influence if she is poor and plain to look at? (Part of that answer is that a smile costs nothing and is beautiful even in a dirty face.) 😀
That is so sweet of you to share this memory!
God bless you and your family.
Love you all!
Tricia
You are very welcome. This story is a lesson for us all – pay attention to the influence you might be leaving behind you.
Caring and encouraging others is worth more than diamonds. Thanks for this inspiring reminder!
Priorities and values are, or should be, based on more than money! Thanks for the read, JoAnna.
I agree!
A great gentle story of value in LIFE. Thank you.
Thanks, Faye. Have a great celebration Sunday.
That is such a sweet story. We really don’t know what is seen through our reflection, do we? How beautiful it is when it is Christ’s.
And it remains consistent through one’s lifetime.
Beauty is fleeting – but a woman who knows the Lord will be praised. A princess indeed.
Thank you for the comment. I believe you are another lady of lasting beauty.