A few weeks ago, after working three 12-hour night shifts back-to-back, I went home, went to sleep and woke up to a beautiful message from my daughter, Tanya. Her attempt at patios (Jamaican) made me laugh….. for days!!…… and made my heart joyful. But most of all, I could hear the happiness in her voice and that brought me the most pleasure!
Needless to say, I still have the message….. and listen to it regularly!!
You never know how your kindness or thoughtfulness will touch someone else’s life…..
One thing that relationship research taught me over the years is that: good relationships are good for us….. and they require hard work, consistency, and persistence.
But well worth it…..
Those closest to us can help us cope with life’s stresses, such as job loss, relationship break-up, or illness.
But when times are tough, it’s easy to become self-focused and less attuned to the people around us. We may even withdraw from our support system.
I’m certainly guilty… turning inward when times are hard….. may even lash out at those who are trying to help.
But no matter how strong and independent you think you are, we all need help sometimes. And we all need love, care, and kindness from time to time.
So, when you’re down and out, be open to the attempts of others when they try to reach out to help you.
And remember……..
A healthy, supportive relationship is not one-sided. You must make yourself available to provide aid to others when they need it.
To reap the benefits of a strong relationship, we must support each other in both good times and bad, and create a supportive environment of “mutual responsiveness” to each other’s needs.
Be willing to accept help when you need it and be willing to help others in return.
Because, no matter how small, no act of kindness is ever wasted…..
Have a great week!
From the heart of a nurse…..
#walkGood
