What if the way you acted toward other human beings really mattered. I mean, what if it mattered in that how they thought of you had a direct influence on your health and longevity?
What if when you went to the supermarket and waited in line, you were patient with person ahead of you who was fumbling with his groceries and when he left, you smiled and said goodbye and you greeted the cashier with a smile and pleasant small talk? What if their kind thoughts about you made you healthier? What if they made you feel better?
What if when you were shopping in the mall someone was standing in front of you in the way, you gently asked to pass and when you saw a little child in a stroller you smiled? What if when your old acquaintance spoke to you in excruciating detail about her medical condition you listened? What if the way they felt about you changed your life?
What if you were undercharged at a store and you pointed it out and gave the money back to the cashier, and she was incredulous? What if how she felt about what you did increased your feeling of well-being?
What if the things you do just because you are being the person you want to be– embodying the values you hold ended up making you a healthier and happier person?
Here’s a secret: I think they do.
What great thoughts. I agree that it does matter how you treat others and yourself.
I generally try to greet everyone with a smile and a kind word, especially to security at the Central Bus Station and bus drivers. It does not matter if the respond in kind, it makes me feel better. What is really amazing is when one of the security guards sees me and smiles.
There is a site called Daily Acts of Kindness where people write in about kind acts they have done or witnessed. The stories there are heartwarming.
Hope all is well with you, your husband and your family.
Aviva
I generally try to greet everyone with a smile and a kind word, especially to security at the Central Bus Station and bus drivers. It does not matter if the respond in kind, it makes me feel better. What is really amazing is when one of the security guards sees me and smiles.
+1