By Jackie Dover
Do you know one of my favorite things about Southeast Missouri?
The ability to get almost anything through a drive thru. There is nothing better at the end of a long day, I’m tired and frustrated from a long day at work and I can cruise right up to a gas station window to get my Diet Coke. I know it is a bad habit but still so comforting.
Recently I was in the drive thru with one of the twins and we were discussing things that are important to an 18 year old. The young lady who took our order and then the payment seemed stressed and overwhelmed. I told her I liked the bright colors she was wearing and that those colors looked good on her. Her entire demeanor changed. She smiled brightly and we had a quick chat about the lovely weather and how nice the sun was.
We drove away and that was that, so I thought. My son commented on how she seemed much happier as we drove away than she did when we pulled up. He thought it was great we could make her feel better, if only for a moment.
Just one moment.
It took very little to bring some cheer to someone who was struggling. Imagine if we all could take a few minutes out of our day to just be kind and offer joy instead of frustration and anger. Everyone is overworked and stressed and this time of year there are extra concerns about money, family issues and weather. Being kind not only impacts the person you are being kind to but it also helps improve your mental health and your
Many studies have shown that being kind increases oxytocin levels; oxytocin is a stress-reducing chemical that has been associated with feelings of warmth, bonding and community. It has even been called the “cuddle hormone” or “love hormone”. Oxytocin can reduce stress, lower blood pressure and promote positive social behaviors. All those benefits just by saying something nice or doing something kind. It is amazing to think how small things can have such a huge impact.
Seeing someone hold a door open for the next customer or pick a dropped item for someone or even just acknowledging someone’s work and letting them know you appreciate what they are doing are small acts of kindness that can grow and be multiplied if we all just take a small moment to help.
Remember during the sometimes-overwhelming holiday season that you take the time to be kind to yourself. Things do not have to be perfect. When things go wrong, it can seem overwhelming in the moment, but those can be the things we laugh about later. Take a breath and give yourself credit for the person you are and what you contribute.
My son, Keegan was thrilled to be a part of improving someone day and his enthusiasm made me feel like the best mom ever! Kindness matters. It matters to the person you are affecting, to those who see the kindness and it matters to ourselves. Life is hectic, sometimes we all get frustrated, angry or impatient but take a moment, just one moment to breathe and show grace and kindness, and maybe we can make this world a better place for all of us.
I hope you all have the best holiday season and new year and if you have questions or need assistance, please call 1-800-392-8771.
Because kindness and Aging Matters.