The Value of Kindness, Connection and Love

Usually, I love writing about my passion for brownies, but today I want to share a personal experience that has had a lasting impact on me.

 This season is truly special as it brings forth an overwhelming feeling of love. It's a time when we celebrate love relationships and, most importantly, self-love. Remembering that self-love starts with stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing love in all its forms.

A few days ago, I was at CVS, buying what I needed with coupons, and I noticed a young man at the next register. He had an enormous bag of prescriptions and was trying to purchase a two-pack of paper towels and a bottle of Tylenol. I couldn't help but wonder if all the medicine was for himself, his wife/partner, a child, parent, or grandparent. His card kept getting rejected, and I could see the pain in his eyes. He politely called the cashier over to void the transaction, but of course, the cashier came with an attitude and could not be discreet about it. I was feeling heartbroken for a stranger. As I watched the poor man exit the store with his head down, my heart ached.

I felt deep empathy for that young man, as I know first-hand the pain he was experiencing. Providing for myself and my two children on a tight budget is a constant battle. I dread grocery shopping, or any shopping for that matter as I'm always worried about whether I will have enough money to pay the bill. It's a terrible feeling that makes me feel dizzy and sweaty. Despite my best efforts, it seems like a struggle to provide the basics for my family.

 It's difficult to accept that basic necessities are out of reach for so many people in our country. The fact that we're living in a time when even paper towels and Tylenol are unaffordable is truly disheartening.

So, I told Melanie that we had to do something. We quickly paid for our two items and ran into the parking lot. I reached into my pocket and pulled out my last twenty-dollar bill. Cash is scarce for me since winter farmers markets are limited to only once-twice a month, but in my soul, I knew I had to help this guy. I knocked on his window and handed him the twenty-dollar bill. I told him that I witnessed what he went through, and that it broke my heart that he had to return the paper towels and Tylenol. I urged him to buy what he needed and told him that things would get better. I said God bless you, and he couldn't stop thanking me.

That exchange was priceless.

I'm not sharing my personal experience for recognition, but rather to inspire and encourage each and every one of you to be kinder, more compassionate, and empathetic. A simple gesture, such as a smile, can change the trajectory of someone's day. The monetary value of what I offered pales in comparison to the human kindness, connection, empathy, and love that I shared with a stranger. In that moment, I was able to deliver a message of hope through a small yet meaningful act, making a positive impact in this world.

I encourage you to embrace love this February by becoming love.

An effortless way to spread love is through positivity.

Rather than focusing on what you lack or searching for love elsewhere, why not embody love itself?

Bring happiness to others by making a difference in their lives. Lend a hand to strangers by offering a coffee or a smile and see how a small gesture can brighten their day.

Join me in spreading kindness, one action at a time...

Just be love.