Committing to Kindness

Another year begins—2018. Time continues marching forward, although in my heart it often stands still. Time is measured differently in grief. As I begin the new year, I have given some thought to goals and priorities—what do I want for the coming year?

Losing my son, Jordan, at 24 years of age has taught me that life doesn’t always turn out the way we want or plan. Dreams don’t always come true. Tragic things can happen—things we can’t control. Life can change in the blink of an eye and we are left with shattered hearts and altered lives. There is so much in life that is out of my control. I don’t understand why parents have to bury children, why millions are starving to death in Africa, why pets are abandoned without a care or why man harms his fellow man. These things just don’t make sense in our earthly existence. However, I do know that from the very beginning, the Creator built the world on acts of loving kindness.

I have long passed the stage of making New Year’s Resolutions. For me it was always pointless… I always started off with a bang, but lacked staying power. What was so important to me January 1st soon lost its priority, as life and responsibilities took over. Instead of making a resolution that will quickly lose momentum as the months pass by, I want to aim towards a lifelong change, something that benefits more than just my needs or wants at the time. My grief will forever be part of me, but I have learned from it that one of the things that makes life precious and worthwhile is our ability to bless others. The most enriching experience is to give of yourself... whether a helping hand or a kind word. My goal for 2018 is to make a commitment to kindness at all times... in thought, word and deed. It’s easy to be nice to people who we believe deserve it, but I want to include the unlovable and the unkind – they need it so much more. I believe that everything we give comes back to us multiplied. How can it not... when you shine your light in the darkness it reflects in your own soul. To honor my son’s memory, I choose kindness.

I wish you peace, comfort and hope in 2018. Be kind.