Do you notice the people around you and see how they are doing? Life is so “busy” that many people go throughout their day hurting and not even being noticed or encouraged. It’s not our job to pry or regulate everyone around us, but it can be in our heart to let them know – I see you. I hear you. I care about you. You matter. We can do that without even knowing what’s going on. Mrs. Bardon taught me that through her Miracle Mints…

When I was teaching, I had the gift of working with Mrs. Bardon. She assured my mom she would take care of me. I was fresh out of college and new to living in Indianapolis which meant I didn’t know anybody. It was a lonely time period in my life, but Mrs. Bardon made it feel less lonely right away. She cared about me without knowing a thing about me, and she quickly became a dear friend. 

Mrs. Bardon used to hand out Lifesavers Mints, but she called them Miracle Mints. They were always in her pocket. It was like she had a Mary Poppins pocket with an unending supply! I watched as she would hand them out periodically. At first, I didn’t think much of it other than “that’s a nice gesture.”

After over 40 years of teaching, Mrs. Bardon retired. (She was still in the classroom subbing after her retirement. Often times, it was for me because of the health issues I experienced during my 4th year of teaching. She told me to contact her any time I couldn’t be at school and she would cover my class for me. She subbed for my class every single time.) Our principal, Mr. Padgett, encouraged us to consider everything Mrs. Bardon did for our school and to carry on her legacy in our own way. I chose Miracle Mints and kept them in my desk drawer. Over time, I developed a deeper understanding of why they are so special. (Story below) 

Monday is Random Acts of Kindness Day. If you’re not sure what to do, you could give Miracle Mints to someone you want to encourage and feel free to share the story below:

The Legend of the Miracle Mint

“Do you need a Miracle Mint?” Mrs. Bardon would ask whenever she noticed a student struggling or feeling anxious. She’d ask the same of the adults, too. Mrs. Bardon taught at St. Michael for 40 over years, and when she retired, our principal, Mr. Padgett, encouraged us all to carry on her legacy in our own way. For me, that meant becoming the school’s Miracle Mint provider.

At first, I thought it was just a simple, soothing gesture. After all, the mints did seem to ease kids’ anxiety—and even help with things like IBS. (The placebo effect is real!) Every time someone received a Miracle Mint, whether child or adult, they left feeling a little lighter.

But as time went on, I realized the true power of the Miracle Mint was deeper than its calming effects. It became a symbol of something much more profound: I see you. I hear you. I care about you. You matter.

Isn’t that what we all long for? To be truly seen and valued?

So, as you receive these Miracle Mints, know this: I see you. I hear you. I care about you. You matter.