Friends, family, and at times, the kindness of complete strangers. Sometimes, small glimpses of light are enough to keep you going a little longer.

When I begin to comprehend what I have, I feel stronger to help others in need.

The wonders of nature, kids being kids, humour that is not at anyone’s expense, seeing others with a beaming smile.

It brings mutual love and respect. I can see how my ideas and path are not the only ones possible. It provides a shoulder to lean on in tough times, and shared celebrations of others’ special times.

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.

What an amazing, important and perspective-altering career, Michele! Thank you for sharing.

Maybe you are also a little hard on yourself 💗

Powerful – thank you for sharing.

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.