Be that person.

I experienced a life altering loss in 2020. A loss that has changed me forever. As I learn how to adapt to this grieving process each day continues to have it's challenges. Right before the holidays one of my closest friends also experienced a great loss. As I witnessed her life too forever changed, I knew exactly what she was going through and the journey of grief to come. In life despite what we may be going through, you hope to have people there for you during your darkest days and in return you do the same for them. I was in the midst of my pain and I still had to be there for my friend as hers began. I attended the funeral and showed my support. Clenching back tears during the service was hard. Not only feeling sympathy for my friend and her family but a wave of emotions hit me because it was all too familiar. From that day I told her that I would be her shoulder to lean on if she needed, with a sense of relief that I'd have some one who understands what I've been going through. I would check up on her daily, send her prayers and uplifting quotes. Even though I was hurting internally, caring for others never stopped for me. I always had it in me to make sure the people I care for are okay. It's like a quote I read "The best way to cheer yourself up is to try to cheer somebody else up." I feel this is so true. No matter what your going through you genuinely still want to see others happy. Christmas was approaching and thinking about everyone else was always on my mind. I had my list of people who I felt the need to gift. My friend was at the top of the list. Of course I knew I wanted to give her something of sentimental value. I decided to order a custom made ornament that signified her loved one. I knew she would love and cherish it. I somehow found a sense of peace giving special gifts to the people I cared for. That was my thing. Not everyone experiences the holidays the same and it doesn't always bring happiness. My sadness deepened as Christmas approached. I was struggling and I knew others often do as well for many different reasons. I wanted to show kindness in any way I could. I wanted to support people in anyway I could. I decided all my gifts would be from small businesses. I knew how hard 2020 had been for small business and that one purchase can turn someone's circumstances right around. So I found small businesses through Facebook marketplace and got all my gifts. With COVID going on I knew that the Holidays can affect the seniors the most. I work part-time at a seniors building as a concierge, so I see first hand what some go through. With strict rules and regulations in place, a lot of the seniors could not have family visit them during Christmas. Many of them were all alone and stricken with sadness. I decided to show a kind gesture and gift a few with cookies. It wasn't much but they were appreciative. I also offered the ones in need to do personal shopping for them. I would purposely engage in conversation and crack jokes with some even if they weren't quite in the mood. It was an act to show them that they are thought of and they are not alone through this tough time. I knew how I felt during the holidays and still feel and I don't wish anyone to feel the same, so I will continue to due my part and give back wherever I can and continue to care for the people that matter the most. Life is too short and full of negativity, hardship, loneliness. You never truly know what any act of kindness small of big can change someone's whole world. Who knows that act could also be the road to healing from them!