A Kind Word

It has been a difficult few weeks for our family, which is why I've been lagging in publishing any new blog posts.  A worrisome health issue with my Mother-in-law requiring hospitalization and surgery, the sudden sickness and loss of our sweet cocker spaniel, Dusty, of 14 years, and my own bout of a quick virus somewhere in between has been emotionally draining to say the least. Where writing typically serves as an outlet, I found myself tired and sad--not the best voice for an inspiration blog.

But now, with all of the most recent urgencies behind us, and experiencing some moments of calm, I've been asking myself and others about what inspires us and uplifts us when we, the usual optimistic and positive, are not.  It doesn't take much to review the last few weeks to find the simple answer.  It is nothing more than a kind word.

In both the deepest of sorrows or perhaps merely an "off" day, a phone call, a surprise handwritten note discovered in the mailbox or an early morning text with heartfelt emoticons can do wonders for one's spirits.  A hug, dinner with friends, and flowers accompanied by a sweet note delivered on my doorstep  all were reminders about how powerful words can be.  These are the small things that were big things in my life this last month.  Kind words have kept me moving forward, put a smile on my face, and have reminded me that even in the low and hard times in our life, there is so much good that surrounds us each day.  From the lips of a friend, a keyboard to one's computer screen, the pen in one's hand, a kind word can go far in healing one's wounds.  And by sharing with one another, perhaps through a simple blog and kind words, I hope we can help serve to mend and inspire others as well.