When is the last time you walked in someone else’s shoes?
I, like most people, am definitely guilty of getting stuck in my own head most of the time. Our thoughts consume us…and there is always so much to do in our busy lives. To do lists never end, commitments just keep coming out of nowhere, and we are always juggling so much at once. We spend a lot of time worrying about what others think of us, and not enough time considering that others, really don’t think of us much at all…because they are also stuck in their own heads!
Sometimes we just need to step back and consider the circumstances of others to truly appreciate our own, and to practice compassion for those whose struggles we know nothing about.
Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle
When I was really struggling with my illness a few years back, very few people really had any idea what I was dealing with. I began most days curled up in the fetal position … my stomach cramps were so severe it was difficult to even get out of bed and get my daughter ready for school. I would spend the day running back and forth to the bathroom and I compulsively planned my outings around which public bathrooms were most accessible. I often had to cancel clients when the pain was too great, and I started to avoid eating all together…the pain of hunger was much more tolerable than the pain caused by eating.
The frustrating part was that people didn’t know I was sick… because I didn’t look sick. I was 29 years old, lean and fit, energetic and I tried to keep a smile on my face. My outward appearance was so mismatched to what I was actually feeling inside.
During that rough time, a little bit of kindness went a very long way. All that I wanted was to be understood, loved and supported. It’s amazing how much healing can happen out of a little love :)
My challenge to you this week is to let go of your judgement, and start looking at people with a fresh set of eyes. Practice compassion for those struggling, and go out of your way to spread joy to everyone who crosses your path.
Be kind whenever possible… and it’s always possible!
Amanda ~ xo