A reader of my blog emailed me about a memorial service she attended recently that made a positive impact. She said five caregivers to the person who died were also present and spoke at the reception following the service:
“The caregivers were not comfortable using a microphone, and were a bit difficult to understand as they spoke with a foreign accent. Even with the communication challenges, what these caregivers communicated to me and those gathered was unmistakable. They talked about the love in the home, the acceptance they felt, and the appreciation the family expressed. They had never been treated with such kindness, and it meant so much to these caregivers.”
Recall a time when a patient or family made YOU feel valued and appreciated. What did they do or say that demonstrated their kindness and how did it impact you? My hunch is that it endeared you to the family, boosted confidence in your own abilities and empowered you, and, that you passed the kindness along to others in some way. Kindness tends to be contagious with even a single act having a ripple effect. So today, practice kindness in whatever form you choose. And don’t forget to be kind to yourself too!