A few weeks ago, I received a lovely postcard in the mail from, well . . . from one of you. It was a note of encouragement and a thank you, of sorts, to me for just . . . being me, and it was a total surprise. (A really lovely surprise.) The card arrived when I was at quite a low spot. I was reeling from the election and wondering how I could go on dealing with, well . . . everything. I was ready to quit blogging (again) (I know), because, well . . . what could I even say anymore?
The postcard writer wrote these words. . . “Being a giver of joy can be tiring. Hoping your time of opting out is bringing the restoration and peace that can be so elusive in this crazy world.”
It was a true gesture of kindness.
A light shining in my darkness.
And it helped me turn the corner on how I was feeling.
Almost a month later, I still have that postcard propped up on my desk. I read it every day, at least once, and often more than that.
It was actually this postcard that got me feeling like I might still have some things to say. Like . . . maybe what I really needed . . . maybe what we all needed, actually . . . was to share this Cup o’ Kindness together. I guess you could say that the postcard was the inspiration for this whole thing.
It’s also a reminder – to me and to all of us – that it doesn’t take much effort, really, to be the light for someone else. Small gestures can mean so much! Smiles. Nods. Generously allowing someone to move ahead of you in line. Giving a compliment. Sending a thank you note. Or a postcard.
Simple acts of kindness.
Be the light!
If everything around seems dark, look again, you may be the light.
– Rumi
Come.
Fill your cup.
Ooff… I am very much not feeling like much of a light these days. I needed this gentle reminder. Thank you so much! XO
I had a somewhat busy day yesterday and after someone held a door for me, I started to take note of those small gestures, and more importantly, pass them on. I tried to acknowledge everyone I came into contact with and it made a difference. The other person didn’t always respond, but it made me feel slightly better. I’ve never thought of myself as the light but I now see I can be. Thank you for the reminder and the Rumi quote.
Thanks for the reminder Kym. It is really quite easy to be a light!
Thank you for this post full of encouragement to all of us to become the light, and it is perfectly timed, Kym! I try to do this every day when I am out. I want people to believe in their fellow man and find kindness where they can. And in exchange, sometimes I find some kindness myself. It’s a lovely little gift in my otherwise barren day. I give thanks for people who remind us of this through their small, but very thoughtful, gifts of comfort., like a postcard. It turned out to be a gift for all of us who love your blog.
A very timely reminder. I’ve studied the mystic, Saint Teresa of Avila, a bit. One of her metaphors is that the soul is a castle and that sometimes we just need to close the drawbridge over the most so that reptiles – preoccupations, for example like the news- cannot enter. It is a very powerful image for me and I use the imagery quite a lot to disconnect. I disconnect quite a bit and the pendulum has swung too far in that direction. For example, I spend a significant amount of time evaluating a book that I am considering reading as to to how many reptiles might I encounter. I am feeling that encountering a reptile, even a fictional one, has the capacity to drain the moat – consciously or subconsciously. I appreciate the reminder. Perhaps I can fill the moat with light instead of water, or at the minimum, put some twinkle lights on the railings.
Giving someone a smile is so easy but can make such a difference — especially at this time of year, when patience seems to run short so often. I think we should all make a concerted effort to spread kindness however we can!
I’m so glad that someone sent you that postcard and reminded you of how much you give to all of us on a regular basis. I would miss your wisdom and wit desperately if you ever stopped blogging, I’m grateful that you are still here. XOXO
Unless I’m really low & avoiding everyone, I smile… usually, I get one back. Even if I don’t, I just feel better!
just the message I needed today – thank you!
The Rumi quote is perfect! When it is dark, even a little light can shine bright.
Your final quote was an aha moment for me! I would truly miss your voice here so am so happy you continue to share. (I have several of your playlists saved…and I just finished my third batch of Bourbon Maple Pecans – making, not eating!😜)
How lovely and what a good reminder. Count me as another one who is so very glad you are still here blogging for us all to read.
You certainly are the light we need, Kym.
Yes to the simple acts of kindness. I am so glad you continue to post. I propose a toast to you.