By Shawn McAndrew
How many times a day do you have connections with other people? A dozen? Hundreds? It depends on how many people you interact with, and these days that’s likely to be mostly virtually. But we’re still interacting with people. We’re still making impressions, saying things, doing things in our lives that may affect others.
Connections Everywhere
After a recent blog post, I received an email from someone who is on the other side of the world from me. The blog had an impact on this person, and they were reaching back to me out of gratitude and connection. When I write, it is usually on a topic that is spirit-inspired. I have no idea what impact or effect it will have on anyone who reads it. I just hope it has a good message.
We usually have no idea how another person is affected by a planned or chance encounter. Through mindful living, we can choose our words and actions to come from a place of love and compassion. We have the opportunity each day to make someone’s day better just by smiling at them or saying hello. These interactions also serve to make our day better.
Opportunities Everywhere
When I think back to some of the interactions I had with people before I did the Process, they are not always pleasant to remember. As each day and year passes, I have the opportunity to connect differently. I can choose to not interact as I go into the grocery store, or I can opt for the opportunity to have a nice chat with the person who asks if I need help finding something. In the end, he knows he has helped me, and I feel great that I had a wonderful conversation with a total stranger.
It doesn’t take much to be kind, to connect. It is human nature. Our intellect, emotional self, body, and Spirit thrive on these connections. The next time you have the opportunity, say hello to someone at the grocery store. Thank the mail carrier. Smile at the person in the pedestrian crossing. Or, just look in the mirror and say, “Hi! I’m glad you’re here today.” We need to connect with ourselves as well.
Frederica
01/26/21 at 4:26 PM
Thank you Shawn for the reminder…..and the inspiriation!
Shawn
01/27/21 at 10:13 AM
You’re welcome!
Gary Shunk
01/25/21 at 11:01 AM
Thank you Shawn! Thank you Tami! Isn’t it amazing the connection we all share! I love it! Gary
Shawn
01/25/21 at 12:15 PM
Thanks, Gary. Connections! Community! Love!
Tami Tack
01/25/21 at 8:47 AM
Thank you for the reminder to be kind to others and to ourselves. Such a simple practice with potentially profound ripple effects. I cannot predict how my actions will impact another person, but I do know that how I act will have an effect on me. Thanks, Shawn!
Shawn
01/25/21 at 9:49 AM
Thanks for your thoughts, Tami. Good point about how I act directly affects me, too.