Acts of Kindness

Acts of Kindness

It seems we hear quite a bit about acts of kindness, but do we follow through with any of those acts.  At times, we just are not sure what we should do.   In my early part of my widowhood, I remember an unexpected phone call, a sweet email, receiving a card in the mail just when I seemed to have needed it most or an invite for going out for coffee or lunch at the last minute. 

Oh how important any of those things meant to me!  I often think of the scripture from Ephesians 4:32 which reads:  Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another as God in Christ forgave you.  So many have been tenderhearted and it truly brings a smile to my face when someone shows those acts of kindness.  

Often with time, we either are too busy to remember who are alone.  They still need that phone call, a card, or a coffee get together just to let them know that they are still being thought of.  As time goes by, it is easy to forget that they are still lonely and are in the process of healing from their loss.  With each one of us the process, the process is on its own timeline. 

For those who are introvert, very seldom – if ever will ask for help.  For those who are extroverts, people assume they have it all together and are ok.  No matter what your personality is or the stage of widowhood we are at, it means a lot to be blessed with an act of kindness.  Some ideas for doing something big or small:

• Invite her to go see a movie.
• Send a note or card on her birthday or special holiday
• Pick up the phone and call her.  If she doesn’t answer, leave a message so she can return the call when she is able to.
• Purchase a gift card for a massage, manicure or a pedicure.  Physical touch is healing and helps with relaxation.
• Provide a meal n a disposable container, noting who it is from but requesting that no thank you note be written.
• Purchase her a book.  There are a lot of good books out there.
• If she has children, offer to babysit so she can get a little time away.
• Offer to help drive kids to their activities.
• Give her a journal and write the first entry for her.

From talking with others and from my own experience, it is amazing to help out others no matter what the situation is.  Not only are we a blessing to those going through a tough time in their life, but for those giving the blessing, it is also rewarding.   Galatians 6:10 states:  So then, as we have the opportunity, let us do well to everyone. It seems in our times of desperation or new journey in life, God’s grace and mercy are there with us.  

My hope and prayer is that we as widows will ask for help when needed.  For those of you who are able, I pray you will offer help.  Or ask how you may be of help.   If you need help, please do not hesitate to ask. 

May God bless each of you!!