Intentional Acts of Kindness

I admire kindness. I immediately hopped aboard the Random Acts of Kindness train when it became a buzz word.  I watch people constantly. It inevitably brings a smile to my face when I see little acts that make someone's day. I listen for the "thank you" and "have a great day" and watch as eyes light up and gratitude takes the place of angst.

As of late, although random acts of kindness still strike me, its the INTENTIONAL acts that are taking center stage. And I have been the benefactor of these acts.

I have said it before. I don't do well in the whole "asking for help" stuff. I don't really know why. I think that I'm stubborn and I tend to view this whole "needing help" thing as a sign of weakness. I know that's not true, but I'm not always known for my level head and rational thinking.

Soon after I was diagnosed, acts of kindness have become an every day occurance.

My friend, Korby, brings me dinner once a week EVERY SINGLE WEEK. She works full time and I know this is a huge sacrifice for her. I tell her not to. I have told her that it's too much. I have given her every out possible. Her answer?  "I don't know what to do. But I know how to cook." So she cooks. And I get terribly embarrassed and incredibly grateful.

Laurie texts me every single day now. The texts are light and silly and consistently make me grin. Sometimes she'll ask me random questions:  "What's your favorite color, and why?", "Did you ever have a terrible perm when you were younger?" I did. Ugh. THANKS mom.

Dawn knew that I was having a bad day. I didn't really say anything to her. She just knew. She CONSTANTLY tells me that I need to live in the "now" and take advantage of the life that I have been given. She bought me a canvas with the saying:

"Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away."

that I hung in my bedroom so I can remind myself every single day to live my life to the fullest.

Diane and Mark consistently come by to bring treats and love and good wishes and offers of help and support.

Lynnette and Pat and Shannon email me weekly to touch base and let me know that I matter.

Brittany sent me a card with a little golden key inside. She had written the most beautiful note to me. I bawled like a baby.

I have received so many letters and texts and cards and gifts and messages and phone calls. My loved ones have gone out of their way to check on me and let me know that they are thinking of ME and offer any love and support that I or my family might need.

How do I even describe the changes in my family? Little random notes, calls and texts have become every day occurrences.

Because of the thoughts and prayers and good wishes, I am becoming an aficionado of intentional acts. I periodically go through my texts and reread the good wishes. When I'm feeling gloomy, I sneak a peak at my facebook messages and remind myself that I'm okay.

So THANK YOU to my dear friends and family that consistently send love my way. Never, ever EVER will I take your love for granted. 

I have learned a big lesson in life and it is time to put my money where my mouth is. Take a moment in your busy schedule and let someone know they are loved. INTEND to send good wishes and thoughts their way. It only takes a minute and it can change someone's day.