Joseph B. Wirthlin was a businessman, president of a trade association, and a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in the Church of the Latter-day Saints from 1986-2008. In younger years he was an Eagle Scout, outstanding football quarterback, and deferred his football scholarship to the University of Utah to complete a missionary trip. He wrote:

“The true greatness of a person, in my view, is evident in the way he or she treats those with whom courtesy and kindness are not required.” – Joseph B. Wirthlin

Mr. Wirthlin notes that courtesy is evidentiary. That is, greatness is an outcome of our actions, and in particular, when those measures are voluntary.

I was surprised to witness this type of non-obligatory action over the weekend when a young man held an elevator door. I have to admit I was taken aback. These types of chivalrous deeds aren’t as common as they used to be. This young man held open the door to allow the elevator to fill and then ducked in at the last moment. I’m fairly certain he would have waited for the next one, had there been the need. When we arrive at our floor, again, he held the door open until everyone was out and then sprinted to wherever it was he needed to be.

It was a simple kindness. A courteous act that this young man will probably never remember or even think about. It did, however, make an impact. With open hearts and the will to serve, each of us has an opportunity to display courtesy and kindness, even when it’s not required. That’s going above and beyond in a way that shows how rich your character is and how important others’ are to you.

Continue striving for greatness through your efforts of courtesy and kindness. Others are blessed by your actions. You’re also modeling the desire to be honoring, as well as welcoming!