When I was younger we had an elderly neighbour, who had no family. Every Christmas day we would always make an extra plate for him and I enjoyed knocking on his door to deliver the food so he could enjoy the meal. He preferred it that way, rather than putting up with all of us around the table! A kind memory… Sitting in lockdown has given us all enough time to reflect and pause, living in the moment.
When thinking about today, (writing this in lockdown 2.0), all I can think is what a year 2020 has been. For some a complete write off, for others appreciation of what they have, for some a zoom-a-thon.
At this time each year, I would say this is now the time for reflection, but I can imagine we are all fed up with hearing that. With two lockdowns, we have had enough time to reflect, re-evaluate, adapt and survive this challenging world.
Instead of reflection, why not use this time to congratulate ourselves. To appreciate the milestones of the year, however small. This year kindness has shone through this grey cloud. Let’s appreciate the newfound heroes of 2020 and look to the future.
Sir Tom Moore, Marcus Rashford, all volunteers who helped people shield, the NHS, hotels taking in the homeless.. There is a lot of good out there.
So, this Christmas, from all at Ad-Lib, we know it will be different. We are sending you festive wishes, but if you know someone struggling from this year, let’s try to continue the kindness from 2020 by doing one small act of kindness. Help them.
I have said this before, but did you know a small act of kindness, once a week for six weeks, is known to influence your mental wellbeing? I can’t think of a better time to utilise this than now.
Should you need some ideas of how to support a friend in need, here are some ideas from Mental Health…
www.mentalhealth.org.uk/coronavirus/acts-kindness-during-coronavirus-outbreak
On another note, as I write this the Beatles has come on the radio “All you need it love…” Perfect timing!!!!
Just know we will get through this. Let’s continue and unite together.
