Human Nature

On Friday I found myself in circumstances that  vividly illustrated the seamier side of life.  With clear evidence of chaotic lifestyles, by the end of the afternoon, I found myself  despondent enough to conclude that society was irreparably damaged.  Feeling somewhat melancholic but hugely grateful that my own upbringing had been in a loving family, with values that were consistent with a civilised society, I turned on the television that evening.  My spirits were immediately uplifted by the many random acts of loving kindness shown through the camera lenses   of Children in Need.  My belief in human nature was restored

Loving kindness

 A friend’s mum died unexpectedly earlier this week.  When I went to visit her today, knowing from experience that those first few days after a death are difficult, I took a carrot cake that I’d baked. I expect she’ll have plenty of visitors during the week and might appreciate something to offer them.  I still remember the thoughtful gestures shown to me when my parents died; home-made biscuits, a touching message on a card, a copy of a previously unseen photograph.  Such simple things in themselves but all sharing a powerful message of loving kindness during a time of sadness

Flowers by hand!

Last week at work I received a text from Nerea to say that a huge bouquet of beautiful flowers for me had been delivered to the door.  I “knew”, (somewhat sadly, in retrospect) that they couldn’t be mine so I asked Nerea for more details.  Amazingly, she said they were definitely for me as they were accompanied by a named card and the lady who delivered them knew that Nerea was my daughter. Once Nerea had opened the card, it wasn’t too difficult to realise that they were from a dear colleague.   They were a truly, delightful and undeserved surprise