A few weeks ago, a good friend took me to see the Princess Di exhibit in Grand Rapids, MI.  It seemed like a nice enough way to spend an afternoon.  I was never a rabid, voracious Princess Di fan like some friends I had who eagerly followed her every move in the tabloids more than a decade ago.  Because of that, I was able to miss most of the hype and sensationalism about her life but, after seeing this exhibit, I realize I also missed the extent of the amazing legacy of kindness and love she left on this world.

Exceptionally well-done, the Princess Di exhibit was a true example of connection, honesty, balance, and sensitivity.  With very little, if any, reference to the Queen, Camelia Bowles,  or even Prince Charles for that matter.  The exhibit focused on Diana Spencer, the girl, the woman, the mother, the humanitarian, the embattled public figure, and the private world citizen.  I was completely pulled in to the intriguing life of this shy yet passionate young woman and to the brave legacy she left with her untimely death.

Besides marveling at the 25-foot satin train on that unforgettable wedding dress and being moved by the perfection of her brother's brief but brave and poignant eulogy, two things struck me as worth remembering and learning from her life:

1. Like Nelson Mandella, Leo Buscalia, and Morgan Freeman, Princess Di had a singular focus when she turned her attention toward someone.  She was totally present with that person, in that moment.  Even if it was brief, as it often was, you could see in photograph after photograph and video clip after video clip, that when she leveled her gaze upon someone and decided to interact with them, they felt her quiet but immensely powerful presence.  This continues to be a skill and an intention I strive to improve because it feels so good to receive from another person.
2. Secondly, she reminded me that love, tolerance, and acceptance are gifts that leave an unmistakable trail in our lives and on our world when we have the courage to give them, even when others will not.  She was known as the Princess of the Untouchables.  Lepers, AIDs sufferers, disfigured mine victims, lonely elders were among the many untouchables she not only lovingly touched but elevated by truly seeing them for who they really were... fellow human beings.  It's so easy for us to look away, shy away, feel uncomfortable, or just not want to bother and I find I often miss opportunities to really connect and include those who are different from us in their outward appearance or circumstance.

This week, you'll interact with dozens, if not hundreds of people in your life and work.  Each one is an opportunity.  We do not need to be a member of the royal family, famous, or wealthy to leave a distinct and meaningful legacy on our world.  True presence, tolerance, and acceptance for the people with whom we come in contact with would be enough to do it in a very profound way.

If this exhibit comes anywhere near where you live, go see it.  Even if you were never a huge Princess Di fan.  You won't be sorry and I'd love to hear your impressions.