I have found a most enjoyable way to exercise. I peddle my stationary recumbent bike for thirty minutes five days a week. Over the instrument panel is a place for my iPad, where I entertain myself with music and stories about other artists and research my latest projects around the house.

Lately, I’ve been watching episodes of America’s Got Talent on YouTube. It is so interesting to me when someone or a group comes out of nowhere with a fresh new routine. It renews my faith in our uniqueness, reinforced by the effort required to pull it all together.

Much of my life is like this. I enjoy and am often entertained by my encounters with others as I maneuver through my day. Whether it’s Tractor Supply, Lowes, or our local pharmacy, taking a minute or two to savor the experience with a kind word or a smile makes me feel good.

Participating in this interaction is one of life’s most pleasurable experiences. There is no script, no canned laughter, just a heartfelt reaction to a spur-of-the-moment encounter.