The Impact of Everyday Moments

I received a special note from a friend – her son worked part-time at Graves Grocery this past summer, and she wrote to tell me that, “James is getting a scholarship from the BBB today. This is his essay that is in the program. Thanks for making a difference, friend. Our kids feel the impact!”

His essay is below, and my cup runneth over ❤️ – Pam

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James Andrews

BBB Scholarship Essay

James Benton Andrews

Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering

There are many ways to make a positive impact in the world. Businesses, in particular, have a huge opportunity. By providing both a source of income as well as goods and services, they have the potential to bring together communities like no other. I saw this first-hand the summer before my sophomore year, when I worked two days each week at Graves Grocery, a local diner and a shining example of ethical business.

The owner, Pam, is a close friend of my family and is well known in the Lacey’s Spring area as a strong Christian leader. She founded the diner to support herself and her ministry goals, working with a smile on her face and grease stains on her apron. The entire time I worked there, mainly washing dishes, I never once saw her shortchange a customer or lie about anything she did. I did, however, watch her run into the parking lot a few times, trying to catch someone that we might have accidentally overcharged. She conducted her business fairly, ethically, and for the good of the community.

Mrs. Pam doesn't make a lot of money from her business; she told me once that she kept the prices low intentionally, so that everyone had a place to go for a good meal. She did, however, set a great example for what a business should be. It is an undeniable fact that businesses are primarily created to make money (which isn't necessarily a bad thing. as everyone has to eat). However, fair practices and positive impact are things every business should strive for. This applies to both local diners and large-scale mega corporations.

Mrs. Pam probably would make a lot more money if she abandoned her ethical policies. She could choose to pursue money instead of packing free food bags for families that need them. However, the positive impact that the restaurant has on my community would virtually disappear. The same thing applies to every other business in the world. They have the ability to help communities in a multitude of ways. This may look different for each company, but the results can be appreciated everywhere. It may not be the most profitable strategy. It is, however, the best way to make a meaningful difference and a positive impact on the world.