By asking others how they are and listening. By letting them know I’m here for them. By offering help. By seeking others’ advice and valuing it. By sharing gentle humour and a genuine smile.

Sometimes, the people who love me most of all. Reflecting on their impact on my life, the massive hole they would leave, and trying to do for them what they do for me, all help me to try and value them as they deserve.

By not leaping to conclusions about what they are thinking or feeling, nor cutting them short when they are trying to share.

The hardest times won’t last forever. Small acts of support from others can be powerful. You can cope with and get through more than you imagine. They way you perceive a situation is not the only way of looking at it.

The partner of a friend who is very unwell in hospital. He has reached out to us and has taken the time and emotional energy to keep us informed, despite the massive challenges they are facing right now.

While my mother was pregnant with me, she befriended another pregnant woman. That woman’s daughter and I met as babies and remain life-long friends.

The young people I interact with. They have a lot to give and many are wise beyond their years. This brings hope.

My husband, my bestie, and my parents. All of them are supportive, and encouraging, and rarely criticise. All of them will listen and share their opinion, if it is requested. Hopefully I help support them to be their best selves, too. But it’s something I could probably improve on.. good to reflect on!

I’ve been growing mushrooms for the first time (a mushroom farm kit). They require little care – just add water – and they don’t talk back. I set it up at the start of our lockdown.. and tomorrow is harvest day!

For me, it has put the spotlight on relationships. It can be easy to follow the lines of our busy routines, from A to B to C. What’s left when that is removed? Our social connections. We’re in this together, so we need to make it work. I need to remember to be patient, to be grateful, to compromise, and to let the little things go. I need to follow my instincts and reach out to those who might be doing it tough. Distancing physically, while connecting socially.

What a generous spirit you are. Those people were lucky to have you by their side.

I hope that your generosity in listening is appreciated. I’m sure others care about what you have to say. We do.

Lovely reflection, Dusty.

Thank you, amacord – this reasonates.

Great reflections, Carol!

Wonderful, Antoinette! I completely relate and also need to check myself, frequently!

Well done for being self aware. Nothing beats kindness.

This resonates – thank you, Debra

Sounds like you are quite self-aware and having some useful reflections. Best wishes.

I think that’s a common feeling.. but don’t be too hard on yourself!