It's almost one week post-surgery for me, and day by day, I am feeling a bit more like my usual self. Not being able to be up and moving around like I normally do has had me singin' the Blues! I don't like to miss out on anything, and I especially don't like to miss things that are happening with my kids, or at church, etc. The past week has been trying, but I have had some amazing blessings from friends and family, which has made my road to recovery a little easier.
All of the extra love I've received has gotten me thinking about the ways we can bless others. I'm always quick to make a plan of action to help someone else, but then when it comes down to the execution, I usually find an excuse and fail miserably.
If you know someone who's having a tough time, maybe you could set aside a little time in your day to share an act of kindness with them? We sometimes don't even realize the ways simple acts can have such a profound impact on someone's life.
Here are 5 Ideas to Encourage a Blessing
Pick Up the Phone
Okay, so you don't have to actually call the person you're wanting to 'bless,' but texting is a great option. Shoot a text message their way just to let them know that you're thinking about them and to ask if there's anything you can do to brighten their day or lighten their load. The simple idea that you took the time to check in on them will put a smile on their face and warm their heart.
A thoughtful meal can take a lot of stress off of others.
Take Them a Meal
Having had three surgeries, the hardest part of recovery has been thinking through and executing meals for my family. Anytime anyone has ever brought us a meal, we've been so grateful. It really helps lighten the load on the recovering patient & their partner. My sweet friend Lindz brought us a yummy meal and even thought to bring along paper plates & plastic cutlery to cut down on clean up time. Bringing large portions gave us enough to eat on 3-4 times!
Offer a Ride
Oftentimes, folks who are depressed, recovering from surgery or illness can't or shouldn't drive themselves. Offering to pick them up and take them to an appointment, or even just to a coffee shop to get them out of the house for a bit can be a huge help and a big spirit-lifter!
Bring them a Care Package
This idea is a lot of fun, and it's something that I enjoy doing and putting
together. The women of my church are amazing and always put together gift baskets for new moms who have just given birth. In the basket are baby essentials and fun little gift items for mom and baby. You can easily make a sweet little care package for someone who has been going through a tough time. The Dollar Tree has tons of fun containers and lots of items you could make a nice little basket with. You could even include a gift card to a local restaurant that the recipient could order takeout from.
A few moments of much-needed playtime with my sweet kiddos.
Offer a Playdate or Childcare
One of the biggest stressors for a lot of parents who may be ill or going through a major life transition is often childcare. Not all kiddos go to daycare or are in school all day. A sudden illness, life change or surgery may have parents scrambling for childcare. If you feel comfortable offering to watch their children, offer to sit with them- even at their own house for a couple of hours. If you have kids close to the same age, a playdate could be beneficial to the children, offering them a time of fun and giving them the attention that their parent may find difficult to give during a trying time.
Just Be Kind
Of course, these suggestions may not work for all or in every situation. These are the things that have really helped me and my husband after my surgery. He still has to work, the kids still need to get to and from school, and I still need a bit of help caring for them at home, rather than just on my own. I am so lucky to have parents and in-laws and friends nearby who have offered a helping hand. I so appreciate the ways they have shown their love for our family & all I can do is pay it forward.
What are some of the ways you have shown kindness to others? Be sure to share in the comments- it just might spark an idea for someone else to show kindness, too!
I enjoyed this post and I hope you feel better soon. I'm old school and old school age. So from your 5 great suggestions above, I really favor the fix someone a simple thoughtful meal to show kindness. And most times, we know the person well our know their address, so I enjoy sending them a greeting card in the mail. They Too can really cheer up a person no matter the age, to see and read thoughtful sentiment to see that others care about you. Those Can Be enjoyed over the years to look back and be reminded by the recipient to return that kind gesture. And prayer for the friend is free and can move mountains for healing. Have a great Spring day :)
ReplyDeleteAll of these are blessings I have given and received. The giving made me feel as good as the receiver and receiving help and care from others have been some of the most heart touching moments of my life.
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