Kindness In The Small

The other night working a packed mental health wing, I got to pondering....

Have you ever noticed, when walking down the road without sidewalks,

that cars naturally give space to avoid running over you?

When plate or cup is scalding hot,

the waitress warns everyone.

If arms are carrying a full load,

people step-in to open doors.

Something is dropped,

and everyone in vicinity bends to pick it up.

A person unburdens great heartache

and surrounding eyes go moist.

Someone smiles and suddenly

the corners of our own mouths upturn.

Countless times a day

in countless ways,

“Please, you first...

May I help you?

I feel your pain...I see your joy.”

I can’t help but wonder

in this time of social distancing

If we aren’t masking our beautiful,

innate tendencies

to reach out.

Perhaps, it is the small,

seemingly insignificant, quiet kindness

that gives meaning to our lives.

North Star Ponderings