Last week I stayed in London to support my daughter and son-in-law as they navigated the early days of having their precious baby at home. They work seamlessly as a team, tending to their baby, their home and each other, with love, kindness and consideration.
The weather was beautifully warm, a welcome break from the cold East Coast of Scotland, and so I took full advantage of walking over Tooting and Streatham Commons, while the new family took naps or welcomed other family members for visits.
I know the area well and enjoyed reacquainting myself with the well tended open spaces, occupied with parents, children, grandparents and carers, making the most of the warm half term break. I walked through The Rookery, a beautiful community space, created with thoughtful planting, seating and well appointed nooks and crannies. With no dog to worry about, my pace slowed and I savoured the fresh spring scents and warm air.
After wandering around the gardens, I went to pick up a few things from a nearby supermarket and, as I approached the doors, I noticed a group of 2 adults and 6 small children all wearing green Hi-Vis Vests.
‘Go, on, give it to that lady’, I heard, and as I looked down, a small child with fluffy brown curly hair and doleful brown eyes, gingerly sidled towards me, offering me a card. I noticed then that one of the adults had a lanyard with the name of their nursery and a small placard which read ‘Random Acts of Kindness’.
I gently received the card and daffodil, Sellotaped to a big red heart inside which looked as if it had been coloured in by an enthusiastic, and very small, hand. I thanked the little girl who looked slightly taken aback that some stranger was going to relieve her of her gift. As I bent down and read the card, she relaxed a little and listened. I thanked her and told her that her random act of kindness had further brightened up my day. However, I sensed she was reluctant to let go of her card, so I said:
“Thank you so much for this beautiful card. I wonder if you would like to keep it either for yourself or to give to someone else?”
Her face opened wide into the most beautiful smile and she nodded. The nursery assistant thanked me, and I continued with my shopping before heading home to cuddle my tiny granddaughter.
While I was away, my kind neighbours put my bins out on recycling day, and kept an eye on my house, easing any anxiety over leaving an empty property. Meanwhile, lovely friends who were close neighbours, but who have moved, offered to have Jilly so that I could fully devote myself to my granddaughter, and her parents. In my local community we look out for each other, not seeking reward or compensation, but because it is the right thing to do. We give unconditionally and we gratefully receive.
It doesn’t take much to slow down and appreciate those who are closest to home, and look to see who might benefit from a kind word, or an offer of shopping, company or just a smile. Kindness can easily be shared.
If you would like to know how you can improve your wellbeing, if you have become overwhelmed by what seems to be an invisible barrier holding you back, or you want to have dedicated time and space to work through life, work, personal or physical changes, please arrange a Discovery Discussion with me. Coaching works.
Several clients have given me feedback that during our sessions, by hearing their own voices and being asked pertinent questions, they have started to implement the small changes required towards achieving their positive intentions. This is the power and beauty of coaching.
As Monday 20th is National Love Your Pet Day, I will be treating my wee dug to extra special cuddles and a jolly good walk. Here she is reclining on one of her favourite blankets.
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