Be that person that is not afraid to be themselves, and then some.
Be that person who shows kindness to a stranger. They need help with something off the top shelf? Grab it for them if they’re struggling and ask. If they’re petite like me, let them scale the damn shelf- independence is key here. Just walk by and smile as they achieve their goal of obtaining the elusive last box of rice.
Be that person who stops and smells the roses. Slow down while on your hike so you can look around and really appreciate your surroundings. Pick up a piece of trash while hiking- why? ‘Cause you’re a decent human being that’s why.
When you’re in a setting where you can cheer others on around you, do it. When I climbed a 14er, those coming down were cheering me on as I continued to summit. It felt incredible.
When you’re walking down the sidewalk… and you see someone walking towards you, compliment their dog. Why? Cause dogs are cute, damnit. Do they have a cat on a leash instead? Comment what a fierce adventurer their feline friend is. Don’t even question them why they have a cat instead of a dog. Cats can like leashes too. I assume…
Oh, you walk into a restaurant and see someone sitting by themselves? Say hi at least and ask them if you can join. You might make a new friend. Or… they might actually like to sit alone, tread lightly my friend.
Ahh!!! You’re in a store and you have to find the bathroom. *Rushes off to the bathroom* Gets there just in time. While coming out of the stall, you notice some knuckleheads can’t aim. Aim for the trash. Pick up the paper towels on the ground with your used one when done. Why? Idk, thought I needed to emphasize the importance of disposing of trash properly again. Be a good human.
You’re driving, and someone lets you into the next lane. Give them a “you’re a decent chap,” wave. They didn’t have to let you in. How do you make this kind act equal in the universe? Be generous and let someone in the next time there is an opportunity. Be a kind driver.
Call your family and friends just because. Ask them about their lives. Really listen to them and cherish the time spent in conversation.
Back to walking in a store, if there is an item on the floor- pick it up. Yeah yeah, I know you don’t work there. But is picking up a loaf of bread that difficult? No. So just be helpful and do it.
Engage in one conversation with a stranger per week or month. You don’t learn anything new if you continue to limit your circle. Just be careful doing this.
Be the light for someone. Be that person who loves them, supports them, encourages them, and is their advocate. Everyone needs somebody. Be someone’s somebody if you get the chance (and want the chance.)
Lastly, don’t hold back. Don’t hold back if life has been hard or has felt unfair. I once had a dream where I was swinging on a swing shortly after tragedy struck my life. In my dream, I fell onto the hard gravel in the driveway. The words that were told to me, “When you fall on your a**, get back up.”
Be that person.
Find a publication by me at: Life in Katie’s Shoes: Decker, Danae: 9798688190472: Amazon.com: Books
Danae Decker 