This blog is not a political or, really, even a social forum, nor will it ever be...other than my occasional mention of the social standards of eating properly.
Today, though, I had two back-to-back experiences of social kindness from total strangers that impressed the heck out of me! Given the latest national news, this story might be uplifting to you. I hope so.
As I walked to a downtown corporate wellness presentation, in addition to my 30-foot digestive system, neatly looped onto a hanger, my arms were full of goodies for my presentation. I have a sore shoulder, so was already at a bit of a disadvantage. Along with my briefcase full of business materials, and foods for tasting, plates and napkins, I carried two little plants (recently watered – key to the story here) in my sturdy Full Circle Vitality paper bag. Segue here - plants are excellent things to have in your office, for cleaning the air, lowering your blood pressure, and uplifting your mood. They were door prizes for my attendees. They leaked.
As I walked, I passed a young boy with his mother, feeding a parking meter. As soon as I walked by them, the bottom of my sturdy bag, which had gotten wet, dropped out, and the contents spilled all over the sidewalk! Out came my plants, grapes, carrots, dark chocolate, and all my materials! I juggled what I still carried – not very well – as I attempted to pick everything up! This wonderful young man came up to me, picked everything up, and made sure I could carry it. I walked on a few more steps, and another older man came around the side of his car with a plastic bag and said, “here, ma’am, you can have this” and then helped me put my plants inside the bag.
Neither of these men were my age, my race, my gender, possibly not my religion, and didn’t know me at all. But they saw me in distress, and came to my aide! I was pleasantly astounded at this kindness of these strangers.
…Another story.
Not too long ago, my husband and I were ending a vacation on a beautiful Florida beach. The weather was perfect, the water glorious, and the sand hot! Numerous families, some three-generations, came to the beach, loaded down with grills, coolers, food and snacks, beach chairs and towels, umbrellas, and toys. They were staying all day! There was great music, happy voices, and at least five different languages being spoken – all on one beach.
As I ventured into the waves, I looked up and down the beach, taking in the kaleidoscope of rainbow colors from all the sun umbrellas. It was beautiful and amazing! No one on the beach was arguing. Everyone was laughing, chatting, and having a marvelous time. Some people were dancing. Adults were playing with kids and babies, while others were taking naps on the warm sand. It looked like a rainbow in the form of colorful umbrellas and people had descended on this beach, and all was right in the world.
This scene made me think about the wonder of the ocean, and how we are all drawn to it; and also about the ability we all have to get along, to create happiness, and to revel in the company of others, even if they are different. We can create kindness anytime we need to, just like the two people who helped me this morning. They made my day!
It’s a fact that happy people are healthier people. It’s a fact that people who engage in volunteer activities are healthier people. And, it’s a fact that a positive and caring attitude will help you be healthier. So, while you strive to make healthier decisions, and improve your vitality, think about adding kindness and helpfulness to your meal plan. You’ll fill up quickly!
To Your Vitality!
