Be kind.

 

Hi Kiddos,

This morning we went to the park.  And by morning I mean, we were there and playing by 9:10.  An accomplishment by all accounts for me.  I had a tough day yesterday and I figured starting our day off with fresh air and a little exercise was exactly what we needed.  It definitely helped.  However, it wasn't until we were heading home that a small, kind gesture helped turn my outlook around.  A lovely older woman was standing in her doorway as we crossed the street to leave the park.  She stepped out onto her front porch to say hello.  I was actually right in the middle of sternly telling Sela to hurry out of the road, to which she replied that there were no cars right then and I quipped back that one could turn the corner at any moment (I was going for drama).  Needless to say, I was not in the middle of a sweet, joy filled conversation with any of you.  She smiled at us and said, 'well, it sure looks like you were having fun' indicating that she had been watching us while we played in the park.  'You are a good Mom.'  Those five simple words, that she went out of her way to make sure I heard, meant more than that sweet woman will ever know.  Perhaps she did know.  I have passed her home a handful of times when her porch was filled with children and grandchildren of her own.  I think she knows the power of those words.  Lately I have been feeling that I need to be more present during my time with you, more appreciative of this period in our lives, more aware of the beauty of the everyday moments that pass us by so quickly.  Worry less, laugh more, play more cars, more play-doh picnics, more firefighter rescue, take more pictures, the list is never ending.  As Grandma Honey always says, 'parenthood is worth a guilt trip a day.'  It is so true, there is always something that can be done better, and parenthood is alarmingly good at making us aware of it.  But the trick is not letting the guilt win.  For every time I say no, I say yes at least ten and sometimes it takes a sweet Grandma taking the time to remind you that you ARE doing a good job to put it back into perspective. 
Small acts of kindness.  Please don't ever underestimate their power.  I think sometimes when things seem too basic or too easy we opt not to do them.  What's the point?  We can't imagine that they would possibly make a difference in someone's life.  I don't ever want you to forget the impact your words and actions have on the people and the world around you.  No matter where you find yourself in this big, confusing, beautiful world, always choose kindness.  Even if someone isn't struggling and you go out of your way to tell them that you really appreciate them, what's the harm?  You have just made a happy person even happier.  If they are struggling, in any capacity, you have just made this sometimes difficult world a little easier and a little brighter.  What an amazing gift.  So be kind, my sweet children.  The world is already a better place because of you, let that always be your legacy. 

xoxo

Your very proud Mama