The Power of Showing Up: A Holiday Memory and a Challenge for Today

Recently, I was asked to submit a video of one of my early childhood memories for a speaking engagement proposal. As I thought about what memory would resonate the most, I decided to share a story that has stuck with me over the years—a story about a Christmas that didn’t just shape my childhood, but reminded me of the simple yet profound impact of showing up for others.

A Christmas to Remember

My family and I were driving from the suburbs to the Poconos, headed to my grandparents’ house for the holidays. It was a long drive, but everything felt magical—except for one unexpected event. As we made our way through the snowy roads, we hit a deer.

In my young, innocent mind, I convinced myself that we had just killed one of Santa’s reindeer. The idea of harming one of the reindeer was heartbreaking to me, and it seemed like a tragedy that could never be undone. But on Christmas morning, my family surprised us with something special. We were taken outside to look up at the roof of the house, where—according to them—we could see the paw prints of the reindeer. The mystery of that deer was solved in a way that restored my Christmas spirit, but it also left me with an important lesson: The power of showing up for others.

What I realized years later is that my family’s efforts weren’t just about making a child feel better in the moment. They were about showing up—showing up to create memories, to comfort, and to remind me that I wasn’t alone in my feelings. In that moment, they gave me more than just a Christmas story; they gave me the lesson that when you show up for others, you help them find meaning, joy, and support—even in the most unexpected circumstances.

Showing Up for Others Today

Fast forward to a few weekends ago, and I was reminded once again of the importance of showing up. A friend and I attended a spin class for a charity event called Spin Philly, an event organized to raise money for the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). While the event was fantastic and the cause was incredibly important, it wasn’t just about raising funds—it was about showing up.

At events like these, yes, the donations are crucial, but the act of filling that room with people who care—that’s just as significant. It’s about showing those families at CHOP that they are not alone, and that the community stands with them in their struggles. It’s about showing up in ways that make a difference, in ways that remind people that they have support, love, and strength around them.

It’s easy to forget how much of an impact simply showing up can have on someone. Whether it’s attending an event, offering a listening ear, or just being present in someone’s life, the act of showing up is often what people need most.

Today’s Challenge: How Can You Show Up?

I want to challenge you today: Think about how easily you can show up for someone. Who in your life could use a little support, a little reminder that they’re not alone? Maybe it’s a friend who’s been going through a tough time, a colleague who’s feeling overwhelmed, or even a family member who could use a little extra love.

Showing up doesn’t always have to mean doing something grand. Sometimes, it’s just about being there—whether it’s sending a text, making a phone call, or showing up to an event that matters. These small acts can have an immeasurable impact.

So, what’s one way you can show up for someone today? Take a moment to think about it and act on it. The world needs more people who are willing to show up for each other, and you have the power to be one of them.