The Power of Showing Up in Small Ways
As far back as I can remember, my Grandpa would call me on my birthday.
I loved getting that phone call where he would sing just for me. As soon as I said ‘hello,’ he'd launch into the melody. Then he'd ask about my day, talk about the weather, and wish me a happy birthday. My family lived hours away from my grandparents, and we only got to see them a few times a year. So, hearing his voice, and knowing he was calling just to talk to me - it was a sweet moment I looked forward to. He and my grandma had over 20 grandchildren and I know every single one of them received the same kind of call on their birthday.
The first birthday I had after he passed, I grieved the loss of that occasion.
But, thankfully, his daughter (my mom!) has continued this tradition with her own grandkids. My kids love it when Grandma calls them and sings them happy birthday. I'm thankful that she has continued the tradition with the next generation and that my kids get to have this same kind of act of love shown to them every year.
It was less than 5 minutes of my grandpa’s day, but this gesture meant the world to me. The little things you do can make the biggest impact. Often we can overwhelm ourselves with the thought that we have to only do big things in order to make a difference. We think that if it isn’t big and noticeable then there is no point. But, it’s often the small gestures and acts of kindness that ties us to others, gives our lives value, and makes a difference. We may remember the grand gestures, but the small, constant acts of love will be what will speak to the heart and take root.
What small things in your day to day life are making a difference in the relationships around you? Or, what can you start doing that can feed those relationships now?
Maybe it's a post-it note in a lunchbox to a spouse.
A daily text to your teen just to say hi.
Looking for the shy-wallflowers and making sure those on the fringe feel included.
A nightly snuggle and book reading with your child - even when they're past the age of sitting on your lap.
Dropping off a coffee to a friend who's been in quarantine.
Be the kind of human with actions of love that you want to see others extend to you. As you start to show up in little ways for others you will start to notice the different ways that others are showing up for you. Helping others can even benefit your own mental health. Focusing on others and their needs can reduce stress as well as improve mood, self-esteem and happiness.
Keep intentionally showing up in little ways. The effort is worth more than you may ever know.
Challenges/Points:
Often it’s the small gestures of kindness that make a big difference.
We can get overwhelmed by the thought of doing big and grand things, when we can make a bigger impact with small acts of kindness.
Focusing on others and their needs can improve your mental health and wellbeing.
Questions:
What is a way you are showing up in small ways for your friends and family?
What was something small that someone did for you that made a big impact?
What is something you can do for someone this week that can show you care?
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