One small step of kindness

The sun glows through the clouds in Woodstock, Vermont, on Thursday. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Indeed, 2020 has been a year of moving forward with new steps, often unfamiliar and sometimes uncomfortable steps, as we navigate today's landscape. However, that new landscape has also made goodness stand out a bit more, giving us a new awareness of smaller things that used to get little more than a passing thought.

Now, we all know a smile, a kind greeting or a simple offer of help can go a long way. They each provide much-needed comfort, some extra nourishment for the soul, which is especially important during these holidays when large, festive gatherings with loved ones are greatly missed. We can continue to show love and kindness to others even in the smallest ways, and when we do, we shine light into our own lives as well. Also, people are ready to show kindness, and ready to help. Everyone has spent too much time away from other humans this year, so it's that much easier for everyone to relate to each other and see the need for a kind moment or two.

I experienced that concept on Saturday, and I was reminded that people are beautifully helpful, and sincerely so. After dropping off our daughter to ski at Pico Mountain in Killington, my wife and I drove down Route 4 into nearby Rutland to run errands. Several times at a local shop, we found ourselves in the same section as another customer, who cheerfully helped us find what we needed each time. I know the staff was grateful, since there were only a couple of employees on the floor during that shift. So, this woman’s kindness helped in a couple different ways. Later, we enjoyed a friendly chat by the check-out line. All told, the whole experience lasted a few minutes. But it got me thinking about small ways we can lift up each other’s day. The truth is, it doesn’t take much; just a couple moments of consideration, and some grace.

There's no better time to cherish kindness than during the holiday season, because that loving spirit is alive within each of us, and so very ready to be shared. Taking a quick minute to lovingly reach out to someone is well worth it, because the impact goes way beyond ourselves. It uplifts everyone involved, and ushers in a happiness that benefits us all. No gift has greater value than that.

— Gareth Henderson