Before cancer I would watch the news and think what is wrong with this world, with people? Everything always pertained to crimes, robbery, war, and simply hatred amongst people in society. It was easy to see the bad in the world.
Now fast forward to today. I have been blessed with so many acts of kindness that I can't even believe that there is that much bad in this world. Suddenly, all I see is the good in this world. The amazing people who are selfless with their acts of kindness that have directly benefited me and my family. The amazing firefighters whom I have received countless envelopes from; thank you. Every time I've worried about people forgetting about me because I have been off work, and then I'm surprised. The "21 Days of Christmas" that my bestie organized and so many of my amazing friends took part in to make me happy. I've been on a high (natural high of course) since this as everyday I wake up I open a new gift and, my favourite, a new card or letter. Even on days I wake up sore, I go downstairs and see all the gifts under my tree and I'm left excited, happy, loved, and overwhelmed. You see, when you're off work from a job you love, it leaves you feeling as though you're simply a distant memory to those you used to work with. I often wonder why I even question this as my nursing friends are such amazing people, definitely a cut above the rest.
As everyone knows, I waited to get my hair done until after all my scans. Since I got good news, which started with the scan results, it has since snowballed from there. I have literally been in my own little happy bubble ever since! When I went to get my hair done, I was astounded by how my appointment ended. My hairdresser is lovely. She is kind, and a perfectionist with my hair! Obviously, I like this because I'm always guaranteed a great cut and color. After she finished I got up, and she looked at me and said, "this is on me. Spend your money to go out for a nice dinner with your hubby. Merry Christmas." Wait, what?? She can't possibly be serious; but she was. I completely understand that this is her career and this is how she makes a living, and it's Christmas time so I was not expecting what she said to me. She didn't need to do this, but she did! I left there completely shocked, and cried all the way home. Not sad tears, but the completely overwhelmed tears where I couldn't even fathom how amazing people are. Thank you Carly, you aren't just a hairdresser but an amazingly beautiful person and I hope you know how appreciative I am for your act of kindness.
I often wonder when we watch award shows like the Academy Awards, and we put these actors on a pedestal, but for what?? For being able to act, essentially for being good liars?? I wish I could televise and give awards to the amazing people in my life, so that they can be recognized for being amazing people. I mean isn't that what life is about? It's about individuals who act selflessly, wanting nothing in return. In reality, if we only spoke about all the goodness in this world I think people would be shocked to see that there really is more goodness then bad. Unfortunately, it took me getting cancer to recognize this! If I could say one thing to everyone it would be; do something for someone else, smile, and focus on all that is good. You would be surprised to realize that this doesn't just make those around you happy, but it also fulfills your own soul. One small act of kindness can completely change a person's state of mind, and turn their day around for the better. I dare everyone to try it, and I can guarantee you that you will be a happier person for doing it:).
I agree Judit, it is so important to remember the good in the world. One of my absolute favourite quotes is by Mister Rogers: "When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, 'Looks for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.' To this day, especially in times of disaster, I remember my mother's words, and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers, so many caring people in this world"
ReplyDeleteEven though you may not be physically at work these days, you are still a nurse and a helper.
Thanks Beth, and what a wonderful quote I couldn't agree with you more:)
DeletePeople are amazing! I try to make sure I do small acts of kindness for the people around me when I can. I am blown away for the small and large things people have done for us. Makes me cry more than the sad stuff I swear. :)
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you Mandi! The outpouring of love has left me feeling so humbled and loved. I still can't believe how much people have done for me and my family.
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