“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.”
This quote has been variously attributed to Plato, Philo of Alexandria, Ian MacLaren (the pen name of a man called John Watson) and many others. I’m not all that concerned with who said it first, but I’ve been thinking about it often lately, because it’s saving my life.
I am fighting a couple of hard battles right now: navigating the seemingly endless job hunt and enduring another long, hard winter. I know I have much to be grateful for: a loving husband, a staunch and supportive family, all the basic physical necessities, so many good books. But life these days is tough. And kindness – often from people I know, but sometimes from total strangers – is making a real and tangible difference for me.
A couple of weeks ago, I ordered a breakfast sandwich at Darwin’s, and my order got lost in the shuffle – so one of the baristas gave me a free (heart-shaped) cookie while his co-worker apologized and started making my sandwich. I’m often in there for lunch too, and I look forward to the chitchat with my favorite staff members as they ring up my sandwich and chips. Even a brief exchange about the weather, which has been reliably crazy recently, or a laugh about nothing at all, can turn my entire day around.
I’m reaching the end of a temp gig I have loved, and a work acquaintance asked me last week, “What’s next for you?” “I don’t know,” I admitted. He said he’d keep an eye out for writing gigs for me – and he’s far from the only person who has made that offer. On a cold, gray day in the middle of a week of bad news, that simple gesture made me want to weep with gratitude.
After a difficult meeting last week, I found myself in tears in the middle of my office – not a situation I’d have preferred, but I couldn’t help it. Two of my colleagues supplied hugs, tissues, laughter and encouragement. I’ve only known these women for a couple of months, but I was – and am – so grateful.
As I am on the receiving end of kindness, I’m trying to remember to extend it to friends, family, acquaintances and strangers. These small gestures have bolstered me up as I fight my own battles – so I’m doing my best to pay it forward.
When has kindness made a real difference for you?
(Image from Curly Girl Design – a dear friend bought me this print a few years ago.)
Wish I could been there too to give you hugs and tissues! And this quote is new to me! Just added it to be quote book and can’t wait to share it… It’s just perfect!
Thanks, friend!
Kindness is a good quality that is sometimes overlooked. To take an extra step to take care of a person beyond what they expected – even in a small way – is a powerful thing. I work at a small used bookstore on the weekends and we have such lovely, loyal customers. I take a moment to engage with them in a personal way, laugh with them, listen to them and it makes them feel at home there. Very best wishes on the job search – I hope you find something you truly love.
That bookstore sounds lovely, Betty. And thank you so much.
I love this post so much. It is so, so important to remember kindness and how much a very little can go a very long way. Wishing you the best of luck in your job search!
Thank you!
Hon, I’m so sorry you are feeling battered and bruised. When I feel that way, I say I need to get my ruffled feathers smooth again. Even though I’m an introvert, I do get much nourishment from interactions with strangers, or folks whom I know only because I’m always in their store or restaurant. I want to be of service and support to you. I’m local, living in Boston. Let me take you for a cup of tea or to the MFA, or treat you to a spa treatment or whatever. When my mom passed away, the rabbi said that the way we honor and keep alive their spirit is to continue their good works and the things that matter to them. My mom would want to take you out and treat you to something nice, so I’m channeling her as I offer you my support.
Lissy, that is so lovely. Let’s do it!
Katieleigh, I am awed by the heartfelt honesty in your post. And more so by your witness of kindness, despite the challenges you are currently facing. Kindness is a two-way endeavor, giving and receiving – something we desperately need these days! Thanks for your post.
Sandra
http://www.lowcountryfelicitylife.com
Such a wonderful post. It struck a chord with me – I really make an effort to recognize the kindness that gets me through each day. I try to give that kindness in return, to make an effort for others to support them, the way they support me. Or the way they need it. There have been days I cry in my office too… I work with all men, so sometimes it’s fun to watch how uncomfortable they get when I cry 🙂 Good thoughts to you!