For a few weeks I have been dealing with a very difficult situation… but I have been trying to put my best foot forward and show up as the person I really want to be.
This has not been an easy time… but I have been blessed to find myself supported by friends and family. It’s probably silly to even say this, but I did not know that this support was available. I truly have been brought to tears by the kindness that I’ve been shown.
Perhaps that is why I am always eager to show kindness whenever I am able. We all have troubles… and that is a part of life. The hard part is that others around us are often unaware that we are struggling and therefore don’t show us the kindness we need… or deserve. It’s not that they are uncaring… it’s just that we are all so caught up in our own “stuff” that we aren’t even paying attention.
A few years back, I took a class on Emotional Intelligence. In that course we explored a number of areas where we could be “more present” in our daily lives. Oftentimes, what was required was pretty simple: just notice what is going on around you.
Last week it was my birthday and my daughter, Alexandra, and I walked to Starbucks for my “free” cup of coffee. As Alex sat outside with our dogs, I went in and waited my turn in line. I noticed the young man in front of me appeared to be homeless. As we waited our turn, he took out three dollar bills and straightened them out in his hand. When it was his turn, he ordered a large coffee. The barista told him his total was $2.57 and at that moment, I stepped in and said, “I’ve got this.” The young man turned to me and gave me a huge smile and thanked me. I told him, “It’s my birthday, and I want to treat you.” The smile on his face… and his birthday wishes for me more than made up for the small price I paid.
We all make choices everyday. We can choose to be kind… or not. I ask that you always choose kindness. It might not be easy… but it will be good for your soul. And what could ever be wrong with that?
Pie a Day Give Away 
“Loving less” is never the answer… (a quote from Matthew …{ I forget his last name})
and kindness is LOVE in small letters, but not small hearts
Sweet…. Thank you for sharing Ellen. xxoo
Thank you for the reminder to always be kind,I find myself caught up in things that are not important, but every time I read this blog, I am reminded it is not always about what I think, but what I can do to make this world a better place!
Jeff, Thank you so much for your comment. I am so glad that you like my blog.
You’re right, Karen. We never know when someone else needs tender attention and a kind look or helping hand. And even when our lives are going along pretty much OK, kindness makes everything better.
Not long ago I stopped at Albertson’s to pick up a bouquet for a friend. It was to be my only purchase. At the conclusion of check out, I realized that when I had changed purses that morning, I had failed to transfer my wallet. So, I’d driven to the store illegally—no license in my possession. And of course, I couldn’t buy the flowers. The clerk was gracious. I planned to return the bouquet to a bucket, drive carefully home, get my wallet and return. The clerk said he’d restock the bouquet, not to worry. I apologized again and walked toward the door. It was a busy day and I wasn’t very pleased with myself, but was almost instantly philosophic. After all, I’ve had lots of experience in little mess ups! Before I got to the door, a young man caught up with me. “I’d love to buy your flowers,” he said with a big grin as he handed them to me. He insisted that he didn’t want to be repaid, that buying them had given him pleasure. His kindness brightened my day and the memory of it continues to warm my heart.
May your path be strewn with kindness, Karen. It’s a quality that you embody. Thank you1
I love this story Shirley! That young man was present… and noticed… and did a lovely thing. And you both were happier because of it! xxoo
Your love, kindness and generosity for others has been selfless.
“And, in the end
The love you take
is equal to the love you make.” Paul McCartney
You have made so much love..your turn to accept it in return.
I love that lyric… it is so true. Thank you Mary. xxoo
Beautiful story. Just woke up on a plane as we landed then read your blog. Starting this next leg of my trip with a smile.
Dear Chris, Thank you so much for your comment. I’m delighted that I can bring a smile to your face as you have brought many smiles to our faces through your music over the years. Nice that I can return the favor. xxoo
That was beautiful, Karen. The world needs more like you
Thank you Don.
Thank you Karen for being my role model in kindness
Dear Bea,
Thank you for being so supportive. xxoo
I liked your blog very much Karen. It is a wonderful reminder.
Thanks Gary. I hope you are well.