Kindness is the theme this week
Rob and I traveled to see the great Luke Kuechly inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. We have been so excited about this trip and I was not going to let back pain keep me from going. I managed to make additional therapy appointments and stayed on top of all my exercises to get to the point where I could at least participate in all the events. Thankfully, the plane ride was short and each of the events have given me the opportunity to stretch and move around. When we arrived at our hotel with our group, it became evident that they were not ready for our large numbers and struggled to get us rooms. The next morning, we were supposed to have a free breakfast but that did not work out and the poor lady at the counter was not prepared for the large volume of people all coming at the same time since we had to catch the bus for our first event. Rob and I just smiled and were understanding. We thanked her for all she did and said we hoped her day would get better. This morning, we had a similar issue and the same woman was doing her best to keep up with all of us. Same as yesterday, we treated her with kindness even though frustrations were high all around. As I took my wallet out to pay, she used a coupon and gave us our breakfast for free. I shared earlier this week in the blog titled “A kind word or gesture goes a long way towards healing” that God calls us to be kind to others, not for what we can expect in return, but because God calls us to love all His children. This week I have been reminded that in times of stress, when things are difficult, and even when in pain, a gentle word goes a long way to calming any situation. “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1, NIV) I can’t help but wonder, how would these two days been different if I let anger or frustration rule the day, versus being patient and kind. How would the lady at the counter greeted me the next morning if I had yelled at her for circumstances beyond her control? We have a choice in how we respond, God calls us to lead with love (lwl).
A kind word or gesture goes a long way towards healing
Last week I was reminded that although in pain, it was pain well earned in a life well lived. Since then, I have been touched deeply by the heartfelt well wishes and acts of kindness that people have shared to lift my spirits. I am sure I will miss some, and for those missed, please know that your words and gestures have been my lifeline in recent days. These acts of kindness have ranged from text received sending prayers or hope for quick healing, to co-workers all stepping in to take critical tasks from me so I can give myself time to heal and rest. Reminders from friends and co-workers alike that when we get these “nudges” to rest, we need to obey. I received beautiful photos to remind me of God’s omniscient presence and ability to bring forth miraculous healing-after all, he created the Heavens and the Earth. Finally, I heard an unexpected knock on my door this evening and on my porch stood someone with bags of groceries loaded with a few of mine and my family’s favorite things. A grocery delivery from a dear friend to bring us all a bit of joy. In all of these moments, the pain that was just recently all consuming took a step back and I was filled with joy and love from all the kindness shared. Paul tells us in Galatians that those who seek to please themselves and their flesh will find destruction and then he follows with the best words of encouragement to do as all of these friends, co-workers and family have done for me. “whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have the opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers” (Galatians 6:8-10, NIV) I know they didn’t reach out to me for a potential benefit they may receive, but because as believers, we are called to do good for others, for all people. What a Blessing it is to not only be called to share this gift but to also receive this gift when you need it most.