Last week, I was walking in my neighborhood when I noticed two young girls who had set up shop in front of their house. I love it when I see this. I appreciate the entrepreneurial spirit, which reminds me of the lemonade stands I had with friends when I was young.
So, I stopped and chatted with the two sisters. The oldest girl, probably around eight, had made a variety of bracelets, and I saw one I liked. I told them I didn't have my wallet, but I would go home and return. I did, and when I returned, I chose two bracelets. The bonus was they were giving a free freezie with every purchase. They knew how to entice their customers!
I thanked both of them and left with a smile on my face. Our connection felt so precious and pure.
Two days later, I walked by them again, and they were open for business. This time, they had created a sign and handwritten all their products and prices. I told them how beautiful their sign was—so professional.
I was wearing the bracelets I bought from them. I told the one girl who made them how much I loved wearing them and how beautiful they were. When I said this, her eyes lit up like a Christmas tree. She had a big smile on her face and said, "Really?" I replied, "Yes, your bracelets are beautiful. You're so talented." I could tell by her face how much that meant to her.
We said goodbyes and told them I looked forward to seeing them soon.
This simple moment was so meaningful.
When we live with presence, and as presence, we experience ourselves and life very differently.
Our lives become richer, and our relationships deepen, creating a positive impact.
Sometimes, it can feel like we are living in a crazy world, within cities where people feel lonely and disconnected, either at odds with others or without a strong sense of community. It's easy to wonder how we can make a difference as just one person.
Our presence is the very thing that makes a difference.
Being present and open and living in a place of kindness creates an impact.
Have you ever interacted briefly with someone and still felt a strong sense of connection or meaning?
Maybe you were in line together and chatted briefly about an item in your cart, or you held the door for someone juggling too many items, and they looked you in the eye and said thank you so genuinely.
People feel that, and they know when we are present. This simple act of kindness goes a long way.
When we connect to our true essence, we see and feel that essence in others. There is a level of interest or care. Instead of seeing just a stranger, we are witnessing another precious soul, a unique expression of the Divine.
As I'm writing this, I feel my dad's presence. My dad passed away eight years ago. He was someone who had a way of making people feel special. He cared. He took the time to talk to people, get to know them and connect. He was a very kind soul who showed us the impact truly seeing and acknowledging others can make.
This week, what if we were open to being more aware of small openings and opportunities for shared connection and kindness? These moments have a ripple effect. When someone feels seen and valued, their spirit lifts, and they carry that positivity forward.
Let's be that positive, kind force in the world.
With loving kindness,
Diane