For the past year I've been working as a receptionist, and I've often wondered how I am making a difference for others. After deciding to take a break from college, a series of life changing events kept me from going back. However, my desire to change the world and inspire others has never disappeared.

I desire to help others and to be a light to the world like we are told to do in Matthew 5:16. As I process data entry cards, print envelopes and enter mail information I often find myself getting discouraged. Then the questions come up again. Am I really making a difference in other people's lives like I desire to do?

Mr. Smith started calling me three times a day, every single day. It has now slowed to about once a week, but he always recites the literature he wants very methodically. It's the same request every single time he calls. The Good News magazine for January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December. Every single time, using those exact words. After answering his calls for weeks, I began to learn more about him—what his day was like and other bits and pieces I could glean. I began to learn that Mr. Smith, a young man from the sound of his voice, had some type of developmental issue.

I enjoy receiving his calls and now recognize his number before I answer. "Hello, Mr. Smith." "Hello, Ms. Whitney," he would reply. Even if Mr. Smith doesn't realize it, he helped me to find purpose in my job. He helped me to realize that every job has significance. I needed Mr. Smith to call as much as he needed me there to answer and take his request.

The beginning of Ecclesiastes 9:10 says, "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might." To me this means whatever you are doing, whatever "work" is in your life, do it knowing you have a purpose. Fulfill your job requirements with joy knowing that you have an impact—even if you don't realize it.