The Impact of Fall
/Fall has had quite an impact on me this year. On the very last day of our fabulous river cruise, I came down with a cold — not a huge surprise given everything that comes with travel (including one person who was openly hacking up a lung the entire trip).
Thankfully, I didn’t get sick until the end. The long journey home from Germany to Seattle was rough, and by the time we arrived, my husband, Tim, had caught cold too. My cold turned into a double ear infection and then pneumonia. There were three trips to the clinic, one long day in the ER, plenty of medication, gallons of fluid and zero energy. I also lost my voice for seven days straight. I suspect Tim might have enjoyed the peace and quiet if he hadn’t been sick too!
The days blurred together: sleep, medicine, food, more rest, repeat. I had to cancel all my work for the month. Eventually, depression visited for several days.
Without being asked, our wonderful neighbors sprang into action. They showed up with food! They checked in often, offered help, and brought more meals. When we missed the annual Halloween cul-de-sac potluck, they delivered enough food for two more days, along with a soggy (thanks to the Atmospheric River of rain) but adorable get-well card signed by the partygoers. Family and friends reached out often, reinforcing how lucky and loved we are.
As my health fell behind, my heart grew bigger. I felt deep gratitude for the compassion of friends, family, and healthcare people who helped us heal. Connection, kindness, and love are as essential to recovery as rest, chicken soup, and medicine.
These are overwhelming and troubling times — for our communities, our nation, and the world. But imagine what could happen if each of us cared just a little more. If we were a bit kinder. If we did one small thing for someone else. A warm smile and a kind word can change everything.
Let’s do it!
Kindness in Action
Here’s your invitation for the week: find one small way to put kindness into motion. Send a quick text to check in, drop off a meal, or simply share a smile with someone who needs it. Then, notice how it feels — in your body, your mood, your heart.
Healing — for ourselves and our communities — begins with these quiet, intentional gestures. Each small kindness adds up. It doesn’t have to be grand, it just has to be genuine. Every simple act makes life a little lighter for someone, and that light gets
passed along to another and another...
"No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.”
Maya Angelou
Tiny Self-Care Tip
World Kindness Day is November 13. Mark the day by reaching out to a friend - text, call, send a card…Notice how connecting makes both of you feel good.
Keep up your connections by scheduling time on your calendar weekly to connect with the people that matter in your life.
What I’m Reading
We will be finishing up "The Let Them Theory," by Mel Robbins, on our upcoming book club call. See the details below to join.
Here’s to healing — and helping each other along the way.