For many years, I served as an elementary school custodian, taking care of the building and meeting the needs of the faculty and students. It was a demanding job, but I truly loved it. My love languages are words of affirmation and acts of service, so this role suited my personality perfectly. While there were moments of frustration, everyone knew I cared deeply about them.

Teachers would often ask, “When you get a chance, could you help move some desks or clean the carpet?” My response was almost always, “How about right now?” I prided myself on being flexible. Students would come to me to pump up their balls or retrieve the ones kicked onto the roof during recess. I did it all with a smile because I wanted them to know they mattered to me.

Still, I knew I couldn’t keep up with the fast-paced and physically demanding life of a custodian forever. Some days, I walked over 10 miles while working, especially during the intense summer cleaning sessions. One summer, overwhelmed and exhausted, I realized it was time to step away. I made the decision to retire rather suddenly. A few teachers and staff knew, but most of the students didn’t find out until the next school year when I wasn’t there anymore.

Though I moved on to a less stressful job, it hasn’t been as fulfilling as working with such a wonderful community of parents, teachers, principals, and students. One day, I got off work early and decided to stop by the school during lunch to visit. I checked in at the office, and as I was signing in, a class returning from P.E. spotted me. Their faces lit up, and the teacher asked me to come into the hallway to take a picture with her class. It warmed my heart.

When I walked into the lunchroom, I saw the first graders eating lunch. The last time I’d seen them, they were just kindergartners. Without hesitation, they leapt from their seats, ran over, and surrounded me in a massive group hug. The force of their excitement almost lifted me off my feet. It was so emotional. They all knew I loved them, and I could tell they missed me just as much as I missed them. In that moment, my heart felt full—it was exactly what my soul needed.

I stayed through most of lunch, greeting students as they entered the cafeteria. Many hoped I was back for good. I explained that I wasn’t, but I had missed them and wanted to say hello. As I walked past one student, he looked up at me with  his teary eyes and said, “Mr. Fish, you never said goodbye.” His words hit me hard and reminded me of something important: we all leave an impact on the lives of others, often without realizing the depth of that impact.

Reflecting on my time at the school, I’ve come to see that the relationships I built there have lasting meaning, not only for the students but for me as well. These connections remind me of how essential small acts of care and kindness are in creating a positive and nurturing atmosphere.

Now, as I explore new paths in life, I’ve found a way to continue nurturing those connections. Essential oils have become part of my journey, helping me maintain emotional balance and bring calmness into my daily routine. Just as I once used my work to serve others, I now share these oils with those around me, offering a simple way to support their well-being. It’s another reminder that even small actions—whether retrieving a ball from the roof or sharing a soothing scent—can make a lasting impact on someone’s life.