Smiling At 'strangers'
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My favorite, simple, act of daily kindness is to smile at every stranger that meets my gaze. It is amazing how many unexpected returned smiles you receive.
There is a special warmth one gains from this mutual exchange, nothing more nothing less than a simple smile. This effortless gesture somehow reminds me that we are all human despite being 'strangers' in this seemingly massive world.
The human experience of loneliness can be alleviated by for just one moment by sharing a smile satisfying this innate longing for connection, even just for one moment. Sometimes that simple act is all it takes to lift ones mood and make ones day.
I am ever conscious that each individual is on a journey, fighting a battle that they feel perhaps nobody understands. This one simple connection has the potential to mean so much more.
- Posted by bec1605
- May 6, 2016
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I touched her hands-and she my heart
Walking home form work one afternoon, my gaze met that of a lady I had seen many times before, asking for spare change as always, but for some reason today I felt compelled to take out my wallet and give her a few dollars.
As she took the coins from my hands she briefly held my hand and I felt her thanks so deeply as she looked me in the eyes with such immense gratitude. In that small moment the true value of compassion and the need for us to connect and empathize with each other as part of one humanity really dawned on me.
Such a small connection was just so moving. I don't know why on that specific day I felt the need to give to her, or what she would spend that money on, but I do know I made a difference in her life that day, even for just that moment, and that's enough for me.
- Posted by bec1605
- May 8, 2016
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Elevated Kindness in the Elevator
Todays thought is another simple observation and reflective gratitude. Every morning I take a lift 3 floors to get to my office and it is fascinating to notice the difference in energy some people bring. It is clear almost instantly who will be the talkers from even the slightest smile as they meet your gaze, and the elevator fills with their energy.
At this moment you have a choice and realize the power of a small act of reaching, engaging and offering a connection. I make a personal effort to engage with my elevator buddies, even the slightest small talk and guaranteed you will leave the elevator with an extra little spring in your step having made that one little personal connection.
It gets my day off to a positive start. It is after these good mornings that I realize how lucky I am to have majority of my colleagues willing to smile or have a laugh to brighten up my morning with a little extra human light.
- Posted by bec1605
- May 16, 2016
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