Fifteen

Aloha, it’s already well into April; week fifteen of the new year to be exact. In different circumstances, right now I would have been snorkeling, whale watching, and tropical cocktailing to name a few previously planned events in Hawaii, but they’ve all been canceled due to COVID19. I’m not upset about the trip being canceled because it wouldn’t serve any purpose, so I’ve excepted the fact, it’s been rescheduled and I’ve got something to plan and look forward to in the future.

At the end of 2019, I was part of a published compilation book with a total of 52 authors, titled Kindness Crusader. The idea of the book was one chapter for each week of the year. Depending on where the author’s story landed in the book translated into the week they were responsible for reaching out and connecting with the community within the collective group. My story coincidently landed on week 15 during my family vacation. Originally, I had planned to connect with my audience on the beautiful, tropical island of Maui and thought it would make a great backdrop. Instead, my location was replaced with northern Illinois, where I live.

This week I’m reminding people of the mission of the book, which is spreading kindness and gracefully accepting it return. Even though the pandemic is causing a lot of stress and anxiety, it’s also producing an outpouring of goodness, love, and grace. Among the heartbreak and devastation are stories of great kindness, big and small.

I’ve been the recipient of thoughtfulness and have been humbled and felt loved. It’s wonderful how ordinary acts of kindness are turning into extraordinary events that are changing lives in the most simple, yet hopeful and powerful ways. People are being creative in making others feel special on a regular basis. I want to believe this has caused a shift in world love. I’m not suggesting that bad things are extinct, I’m simply feeling hopeful for a brighter tomorrow, and how we treat each other moving forward. We are all affected in one way or another by this event which bonds us together.

No words can describe the gratitude for all the healthcare and essential workers that are putting themselves on the line for the greater good. I’m thankful my children still have jobs and are essential to the cause. Stay well my friend, and keep spreading joy and kindness as often as you can and from the author of week fifteen….mahalo from the Land of Lincoln.

xoxox…..Sheryl

Kindness Crusader click here