Simple Words That Blossomed People Amazing Potentials

 The Power of a Greeting to Change the World

A simple “Hi” or “How are you?” can blossom amazing potentials and build true friendships, as I’ve experienced with my brother Prince Joe on Facebook. My humble beginnings taught me a precious lesson: See great potentials in each person. When I look at a person, the color of the skin or the status in life is not matter to me.  I see each individual has great potentials in life.  Let’s explore how this lesson shaped my life and can inspire yours.

My Humble Beginning

I grew up in a poor farming family in Pailin, Cambodia. My mother never attended school, working the fields with her parents, while my father, a foster child, left high school to survive. Of their nine children, only my little brother Chamron and I survived. We played in cotton fields, wore sandals instead of shoes, crafted wooden toys, drank sugared warm water, and slept early due to scarce candles. We walked hours to the farm without a car and cooked on a fire pit without electricity.

In 1975, the Khmer Rouge regime altered Cambodia forever, causing 2.5 million deaths from starvation and executions. We escaped to Thailand’s Kamputh camp, waiting four years before legally immigrating to San Francisco, California, in August 1979.

Challenges in the USA

Life in America was tough. With few dollars, no English, and unfamiliar foods, cultures, and religions, we struggled. Too young for McDonald’s at 14, my parents, unskilled and non-English speakers, picked strawberries, cucumbers, mushrooms, and salal in the mountains during winter.

Strong Desires to Do Better

Driven by the U.S. Constitution’s promise of freedom, security, opportunity, and happiness, I worked hard. The library became my sanctuary during school lunch breaks. Despite the odds, I excelled, improving my English within a year.

Each of Us Has Great Potentials

My efforts paid off with awards and a role as a high school reporter/illustrator. I earned academic scholarships for college, proving my potential.

True Love of My Life

My brother and I searched for the true Church of God (see my post “Three Heavenly Cries”). After praying, we found The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the early 1980s. At a church dance, I met my high school sweetheart. We’ve been happily married for over 30 years, raising four wonderful children and four wonderful grandchildren and more to come.

A Big Lesson Learned

Looking back, I owe my success to Jesus Christ, my wife, and supportive people who believed in me despite my humble start. This taught me to see great potential in everyone, no matter their background or challenges. This mindset humbles me, fosters brotherly love, and strengthens bonds. Here’s how:

“Hi” and “How Are You?”

A simple greeting can transform a hectic day. It opens hearts and builds connections.

Hello Housekeepers!

In my workplace, few greeted housekeepers. I made it a habit to say “Hi” and “How are you?” every morning, asking about their weekends and families. This made them feel valued and part of the team.

Words of Encouragement

Many housekeepers—from Mexico, Ukraine, Cambodia, and Costa Rica—shared their stories. Though some lacked education or fluent English, I saw their potential. I encouraged them with info on local colleges and trade schools. Wilma, for example, returned to school and now works as a phlebotomist—pure joy for me!

Not Much But Best Complement I Got

My friend Jimmy told me his boss asked for a recognition nominee. Jimmy said, “Michael is always nice and kind. He says ‘Hi’ no matter how busy he is, making me feel special.” Thanks, Jimmy—that brightened my day!

True Social Media Friends

A “Hi” on Facebook led to a profound friendship with Prince Joe from Nigeria. Inspired by his writings, I suggested he publish a book. His response is below.

Prince Joe’s Story

THE NHEMS…..MY AWESOME FAMILY OF THE YEAR 2019
(Facebook post by Prince Joe):
Facebook connects the world, fostering a global community of like minds. My friendship with Michael B. Nhem wasn’t coincidence but divine orchestration. We bonded instantly, sharing faith in Jesus Christ and family values. Michael’s wife, Julene, is a Christlike example, supporting him for over 30 years. This December, the Nhems gifted me a laptop and printer for my Stake Patriarch calling, answering my prayers. I pray eternal blessings for them (Matthew 25:40). Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year to the Nhems!

Closing Thought

I hope this inspires you to see great potential in others. It will transform your perspective and deepen your love for humanity. Have a blessed day!

Michael B. Nhem
Founder of  www.maptohappiness.com