Strength in Reflection

Today, let’s get practical. Instead of just reflecting, I want to offer some ideas that could make our world better while we’re all navigating these uncertain times. Most of us have been dealing with some form of restriction for weeks now, wondering when things will feel normal again.

Start With Yourself

Here’s my first suggestion: be kind to yourself. Charles Handy calls it “proper selfishness.” In times like these, self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Here’s how:

Protect your mind. We’re drowning in information—news, opinions, rants, hidden agendas. If you open your mind to all of it, you’ll go crazy. Make conscious choices about what you consume. Read something inspiring. Watch TED Talks. Listen to podcasts that challenge you to grow. Feed your mind positive, constructive messages.

Do something that feels good. Find activities with instant gratification—wash your car, tend the garden, cook something new. (I made my first homemade chicken, bacon, and mushroom pie last week. It was delightful!) Most of our work doesn’t show immediate results, which can be demotivating. But when you see tangible proof of your effort, it feels good.

Move your body. Walk. Run. Do something—every day if possible. Beyond the physical benefits, exercise releases endorphins that genuinely make you feel better. It’s medicine for your mind and body.

Then Reach Out

While being kind to yourself, consciously extend kindness to others. I know—we all have reasons (or excuses) why we can’t. But here’s what I’ve learned: it’s the little things that make the big difference.

Share what you have. Take a meal or food parcel to someone struggling. They’re all around us. We have an 83-year-old neighbor I visit weekly with her favorite chocolate. Last week she asked if I had gin she could buy. Sadly, I couldn’t help—but I’ll make sure she gets more chocolate.

Write someone. Make a list of people who matter in your life. Write them a letter or email thanking them for their role in your journey. Honoring someone is an incredible gift—it inspires both the writer and the reader.

Pick up the phone. Call someone you haven’t talked to in a while. Tell them what they mean to you. This is the perfect time to reconnect or even mend damaged relationships.

Get creative. Involve your kids. Make kindness a family project. What a wonderful opportunity to model generosity for the next generation.

The truth is, we don’t always see results from our daily work. But acts of kindness? They create ripples we may never see but that change lives nonetheless. Every small gesture matters.

I’ve been overwhelmed by how many people give sacrificially every day. I spent time with volunteers making sandwiches and food parcels. They risk their health. They don’t get paid. They don’t seek recognition. They just show up because they care.

We can all do something to make this world better. In the meantime, let’s be “up and doing.” This work—this practice of kindness—is healthy medicine. Medicine for the soul.

A Story Worth Sharing

I’d encourage you to look up Emmanuel Kelly’s story. What happened to him and his brother Ahmad is grace mingled with unconditional kindness personified. Their journey will move you and remind you why kindness matters so much.

Stay strong. Take care. Be kind.