This is sad and lovely and uplifting. I think we often forget about the people who were kind to us because kindness is often quiet, peaceful and unassuming rather than unkindness which is mostly loud, upsetting and painful. It’s easier to remember what hurt but more powerful to remember what helped.
This is so true, and it makes me think of Fred Rogers who talks about “people who love us into being”. I’ve realized that in my life these loving people are rarely the parents I was born to. Love and kindness really are everywhere but we are trained to look for bigger/grander acts or gestures, which isn’t helpful. Thank you for the reminder that these acts are often quiet ones.
I understand you a lot better Penelope. Money means nothing if you have no love in your family. Love is the lubricant and the analgesic to life. But it is possible to have a career and a family. It is stressful at times but very fulfilling. Penelope, you are loved by the people you interact with.
The smallest act of kindness you experience as a child is amplified significantly in memory, and for good reason. I agree; it reaffirms my belief in humanity.
Really? Is that true about kindness? I want to believe it's true. I think it's true that we block out terrible things that happen as a kid -- we have to in order to keep going. So it makes sense to me that our brain tries hard to remember good experiences.
This is sad and lovely and uplifting. I think we often forget about the people who were kind to us because kindness is often quiet, peaceful and unassuming rather than unkindness which is mostly loud, upsetting and painful. It’s easier to remember what hurt but more powerful to remember what helped.
This is so true, and it makes me think of Fred Rogers who talks about “people who love us into being”. I’ve realized that in my life these loving people are rarely the parents I was born to. Love and kindness really are everywhere but we are trained to look for bigger/grander acts or gestures, which isn’t helpful. Thank you for the reminder that these acts are often quiet ones.
I understand you a lot better Penelope. Money means nothing if you have no love in your family. Love is the lubricant and the analgesic to life. But it is possible to have a career and a family. It is stressful at times but very fulfilling. Penelope, you are loved by the people you interact with.
Well described Penny. I can see it through the eyes of a child...
lovely written...
This is heartbreaking.
This is so beautiful. And heartbreaking. I remember these kinds of kindnesses too and try to be that neighbor anytime a kid shows up at my door.
The smallest act of kindness you experience as a child is amplified significantly in memory, and for good reason. I agree; it reaffirms my belief in humanity.
Really? Is that true about kindness? I want to believe it's true. I think it's true that we block out terrible things that happen as a kid -- we have to in order to keep going. So it makes sense to me that our brain tries hard to remember good experiences.
Absolutely - just a few kind words can have a big
impact.