This is beautiful! Time and presence will forever be the most valuable gifts. I wear many hats, but being a coach for special olympics in my community is one that always helps my FIH meter explode. We attended state competion last weekend and it always brings my spirit great restoration.
I wish I could come to one of your events, Aimee. Thank you for sharing. Just thinking about your athletes competing in their state competition last weekend lifts my heart up today.
Rachel, I love this. I want to start posting on social media daily, asking people to share what is bolstering their FIH score for the day! Also, I have subscribed to an email list called "Nice News" which shares stories of innovation, art, scientific discovery, joy, and hope every day. This helps me when the world feels really heavy.
Thank you for the recommendation of "Nice News" - I will definitely check that out! And yes, asking friends on social media what is bolstering their FIH scores is such a great idea. I think I may start asking my family. We only have a few more dinners before Natalie goes back to college so this could be really lovely. Thanks for the spark!
This is lovely, Rachel. On this past weekend my wife and i found a wallet on a hiking trail nearby. Using Facebook, business cards in the wallet, and some other resources we tracked down the owner who was overjoyed to get it back. My FIH score was really high because the fact is - you can raise your own FIH score through your own acts.
Your story about being Zoe's person reminds me of how important non-family adults can be to kids. When Zoe saw you waving to her, you were someone who had come, not to fulfill a familial obligation, but somply because you liked her and thought her meet was important enough to devote your time. What a wonderful affirmation for her when she is feeling down on herself - that she is important enough that Avery's mom and dad would take their precious time to devote to cheering her on.
I can only imagine how surprised the wallet owner was to have their wallet back!!! The fact that you and your wife went to great lengths to make it happen is really heartwarming. Thank you for sharing that story.
I love reading your thoughts about the impact of showing up for people that are not based on familial obligation but rather by choice and out of love. Your perspective is one I cherish so much, Jim. I am so glad you are here. ❤️
One person, shows up sharing herself and we are all the better for it love.
You show us time and time again dear Grace Guide how we can speak love into the narrative, no matter how polarizing the story is. You help us pave a different path, a person-centered one where we stretch and reach out our hands and see each other through our hearts and hold each other worthy of careful attending and time.
I love learning about the FIH measurement and will make this a daily barometer to check with my husband. The vitriol can become a bit much for him as well.
It makes me think of a storyBrene Brown spoke of. When she and her husband get to a busy time in their week or lives they ask each other how much they each come with. One may say “ I got 20” they other May say “ maybe 25?” Anything less than 100 means they sit down to plan. Not a regular how we gonna do this plan but they create a plan of “ kindness with one another.” This was such a pivot for me in how my husband and I plan as well as how I plan with my sweet self as well.
Kindness is our way through.
Thank you Rachel for helping us re-remember who we are, we are kindful kind of people, we are truly human kind, we just forget sometimes and need a brave, beautiful soul to help take us by the hand and whisper to who we are, so we can remember .
I always get some (soul) food for thought when I read your beautiful comments, Debby. This one is on exception. I will savor it and it will nourish me this week.
Dear Rachel, your Treehouse letter was exactly what my soul needed today. I needed to be reminded of the kindness, love and goodness of humanity. I needed to be reminded that one loving act can make a difference.
My heart has been aching over the vitriol during this election season. What has been the hardest is seeing it come from friends on FB as well as family members. I have been in such a depressed state over it.
We stop treating each other with dignity.
I was watching show the other day and at the end of it a video was created of beautiful random acts of kindness. My heart swelled with joy. Tears welled up in my eyes. It restored my hope and faith in humanity.
Thank you so much for reminding our beautiful community that we can make a difference "and together, we can create real, positive change and better tomorrows."
I feel such solidarity every single time I read your words, Linda. "You Beside Me" - this is what helped Avery and I through a hard time. I feel "You Beside Me", Linda, and it's making a difference in my life.
I completely agree that kindness matters, ever more so in these roller coaster days.
I’ve had several FIH moments this week—one of my young adult children going through a rough patch decided to explore local gyms and joined the one deemed the best fit, went for the 2nd time today and felt much better after!
-the other young adult child helped my husband transport the most stunning owl (that took up residence in our backyard) to the nearby wildlife rehab facility, something I thought was very brave-rhat thing was big!
-today I put together a simple little care package for my BFF who will be spending the weekend at a class for her new job. I do NOT mean this in a “tooting my own horn” way, but yet when I have been feeling a mess in all areas lately it was good to remind myself that when there’s a lot out of my control showing up for a friend is still in my control. It really is at least as fun to give as to receive!
Oh Megan, I love your FIH moment descriptions! The owl transport moment made my heart so happy! And this sentence about how it felt to make the care package really resonated with me:
"When I have been feeling a mess in all areas lately it was good to remind myself that when there’s a lot out of my control showing up for a friend is still in my control. It really is at least as fun to give as to receive!"
I adore you, Megan and I am so glad you are part of the treehouse family!
"If I don't show up, who will?" I love that line for multiple reasons.
#1. Yes, just the act of showing up has a greater impact than we will ever know.
#2. Doing it even through resistance and fear can allow us to show our brains and nervous systems why community and connection is important by being really attentive to the moments that fill us up while there.
#3. I think this is true for ourselves as well. If I don't show up for myself, in all my honesty that I know right now, no one else will, because I am the one who truly knows me best and they won't truly know me unless I show up truly as me.
This morning when I dropped my son off at camp, the kindness of the young college age counselors, who greeted him with excitement, smiles, and connection was truly beautiful! I needed to see that and experience it. I cried leaving because I was so appreciative of their welcoming nature.
FIH meter sounds like an amazing opportunity to honor ourselves and our needs each day. How can I fill my cup and maybe it will spill over onto others?
Oh my goodness, thank you for reminding me of the summer camp drop off experience with college age counselors. They were always so happy to see my girls and it brought such assurance to my heart. The other day, I helped a neighbor out by taking her little girl to art camp, and it was that same feeling of being greeted with excitement and love. I am so glad that routine is still alive and well in the world. That is definitely a Faith in Humanity meter booster.
One thing I am committed to this election season is meeting with someone who thinks differently than I , friends, acquaintances. Gathering together to break bread and break open my heart so it can expand to hold the whole of that persons story. Ni am showing up curious and compassionate so there can be conversation and true human connection. No convincing just a communing of sorts.
This was just what I needed today. “I was her someone; my presence matters.” All those little ways we choose to show up and shine really matter! Not only do they offer hope to the world, they offer hope to me. Interacting with the world in this way keeps my heart soft and malleable.
Sometimes you wonder if living this way is of value. He continually reminds me that it is and your words bring so much comfort because I can see someone else values this too and that I am not alone in my pursuit. It’s an encouragement to not lose perspective. Thank you for sharing this snapshot of life Rachel!
You being HERE in the treehouse and taking time to share these vulnerable thoughts MATTERS a great deal to me, RaeAnne. We are kindred souls. I am so grateful for your presence and heart.
WOW! I have never really "HEARD" the lyrics of this song I literally know by heart until you provided context as it relates to my essay. I am blown away. This is amazing, Jeannie!!! THANK YOU!!!!
For some reason music almost always glues certain thoughts and feelings swimming in my mind, especially after I read thoughtful essays like yours, Rachel. Glad this spoke to you, as well.
Once again, the very sentiments you describe in your essay (which are SO BRAVE) mirror my own thoughts these last few days and weeks.
I will begin with a disclaimer: I do not ascribe solidly to any political party. I vote, but I am very moderate in most of my views and with the strong values and convictions I do have, I am usually able to hold space for those whose perspectives are on the opposite end of the spectrum. I listen, acknowledge any triggers in feeling internally, and set them aside to explore later. Then I enter into that person's story, ask sincere questions to gain greater understanding, and I can usually genuinely see why and how they've come to that conclusion.
This practice has become a powerful exercise, especially in our current divisive climate. I've realized that I feel I'm meant to be a peacemaker in this world. I do not say this in a fluffy, kumbaya sort of way. I say it because it emerges from this deep longing I have to bring people together, to be a healer and a positive change agent, to encourage and love all people of all walks of life.
It's because I cannot stand witnessing violence and hurt and loneliness. I know how each of these feels, and as a highly sensitive person, I tend to absorb the pain of others who come to me for advice or support. So I've come to the conclusion that I can do small acts of kindness every day, and even if no one notices or they are ordinary, I know in my heart I'm building those steps towards unity.
Example: I went grocery shopping yesterday with my youngest daughter, Veronica. Every time I do, my cart is overflowing with food (I'm feeding 7 people). What I do is look behind me when I get in line to checkout. And I always offer for people who have a small cart full of items or a handful of things to go ahead of me. It's such a small thing, nothing really, but yesterday two women I allowed to go before I did were grateful. One said, "Wow, are you sure? Really? Thank you so much. You are so kind."
The exaggeration of her response (in my view) led me to believe that most people don't do this anymore, I guess. But it seems like a small gesture that might help someone who needs to get somewhere quickly.
I also make a point to smile and say hi to strangers I pass by at the store or in the neighborhood or throughout the city. Again, it's small, but a smile can go a long way. Many times, people seem shocked and yet I know from being a recipient of someone else's smile that the bottom line is this: we all just want to be seen. Eye contact and a smile makes us feel less alone. That simple connection can fuel a person to maybe pay it forward in their own way.
Maybe it sounds like Pollyanna, but I truly believe these small, simple acts of kindness spread and compound. We can each change the world in our own way, in our own communities and families, by sharing whatever gifts we have - by giving the thing that only we can give.
Oh my goodness, each time you comment, I nod along and feel like I am reading from a page in my own life. I do the SAME thing at the store when I have a lot more than the person behind me and they always seem SOOO surprised and appreciative. I always feel a lift in myself because it shows me also that I have changed my mindset from always being in a hurry. Sometimes I will even tell the person, "I am in no hurry," to convince them that it's ok to go ahead of me. I love being able to say that and know that I live by a slower pace than I used to. Thank you for helping me think about this a bit more and reflect on it. Your beautiful contributions always help me see things more clearly --- plus, I know my thoughts are safe with you.
That's such a fantastic addendum, Rachel: that allowing others to go ahead of us is indicative of living a slower pace. I, too, feel that my most authentic thoughts and feelings are safe with you. So glad that we can be a safe place for one another.
I challenge myself every year since I tuned 38 to perform Random Acts of Kindess from 9/11 to my birthday of how old I will be turning....I can feel my light dimming when chunks of time pass that I do not perform, reflect or recognize the kindness that is everywhere. Thanks for this beautiful reminder of the importance and impact kindness has on the collective human experience!!!! For good news I have found Reasons to Be Cheerful, Fix the News and Positive News, along with Daily Good. (I believe Daily Good is where I found your writing back in 2013 or 2014.) Another great project is You Matter Marathon that I participate in...no running required. There is more good out there then we are told about!!!!! Like Mr. Roger's mother told him, find the Helpers. Anyways, I love this post, love this tree house and love this challenge!
*Seeing two siblings go down the little waterside for the first time, at a field trip was, pure joy!
I love that you connected with me through Daily Good! I have been receiving their emails in my inbox for YEARS and YEARS. I ALWAYS stop to read the latest article they share. It really does lift me up. Thank you for sharing the other recommendations too - as well as the waterslide story!!!
I love the idea of the FIH meter and taking the time to pay attention to restorative moments. My kids returned to school this week, so we have met many teachers and reunited with friends and learned about new opportunities. People work so hard to make a safe and engaging environment for our kiddos---teachers and staff, parent volunteers, our overall community who supports our schools with the weird funding structure we have. A big FIH boost walking the halls.
Tiffany! I am so happy you mentioned the feeling in the hallways at back-to-school events and meet-your-teacher days. You took me right back to the hallway that held hugs and hellos when we moved to our city when Natalie was 10 and Avery was 7. We were all so scared and overwhelmed (everything was bigger) and a teacher sought us out and made sure we were ok. Thank you for highlighting how this environment that feels so uplifting doesn't happen by accident - so so so much hard work and genuine HEART goes into it. Thank you for this celebratory pause today.
Beautiful! Aren’t track meets the best??? Yay, Zoe!!!! We just got back from a family vacation, and it always makes me so happy to see the teenagers interact with the little kids, and the older generation be interested in the lives of the younger, and vice versa. This extended family makes a big effort to get together this time every year, and it means so much that all of these people are invested in time together.
I love this reflection, Carrie! What a powerful observation about interactions across generations. It is wonderful that your family makes these gatherings a priority. Life gets so busy as our children grow that reunions often fall by the wayside. Your beautiful comment reminds us why gatherings with our families (or those we choose to be our family) are so important. I am glad you had that special time, my friend.
Yes! We were missing Lindy since she’s still gone on her summer project, but she can’t wait for next year! It wasn’t the same without her, but still so good and so important!
Track is the best "team" non-team sport I experienced because of the positive energy the kids send to each other in their individual events. The amount of cheering for each other is amazing!
I am touched that you would consider my schedule. I'm on the West Coast so normally later (8 pm eastern or later) works better for me but I'm on summer break for a few more weeks so anytime is great right now. Thank you Rachel.
This is such a beautiful, hopeful and heartwarming post. I need to focus on the FIH meter each day. There is so much negativity in the country right now. Watching the Olympics is always full of FIH moments and makes me feel like the country is united even if it is just for two weeks! My personal FIH moment happened a few weeks ago in my neighborhood. My neighbor who lived across just recently moved to a Board and Care after living in her house for over 50 years. Her family had an estate sale and most of my neighbors bought one or two items that would remind us of her. We bought her big potted plants, outdoor Christmas decorations and wall ornaments so we could be reminded of what a gift she was to our neighborhood when we walk on our street. It brings a smile to my face when I see her decorations! Thank you for sharing your gift of writing with this community. Enjoy your weekend!
This is beautiful! Time and presence will forever be the most valuable gifts. I wear many hats, but being a coach for special olympics in my community is one that always helps my FIH meter explode. We attended state competion last weekend and it always brings my spirit great restoration.
I wish I could come to one of your events, Aimee. Thank you for sharing. Just thinking about your athletes competing in their state competition last weekend lifts my heart up today.
Rachel, I love this. I want to start posting on social media daily, asking people to share what is bolstering their FIH score for the day! Also, I have subscribed to an email list called "Nice News" which shares stories of innovation, art, scientific discovery, joy, and hope every day. This helps me when the world feels really heavy.
Thank you for the recommendation of "Nice News" - I will definitely check that out! And yes, asking friends on social media what is bolstering their FIH scores is such a great idea. I think I may start asking my family. We only have a few more dinners before Natalie goes back to college so this could be really lovely. Thanks for the spark!
This is lovely, Rachel. On this past weekend my wife and i found a wallet on a hiking trail nearby. Using Facebook, business cards in the wallet, and some other resources we tracked down the owner who was overjoyed to get it back. My FIH score was really high because the fact is - you can raise your own FIH score through your own acts.
Your story about being Zoe's person reminds me of how important non-family adults can be to kids. When Zoe saw you waving to her, you were someone who had come, not to fulfill a familial obligation, but somply because you liked her and thought her meet was important enough to devote your time. What a wonderful affirmation for her when she is feeling down on herself - that she is important enough that Avery's mom and dad would take their precious time to devote to cheering her on.
I can only imagine how surprised the wallet owner was to have their wallet back!!! The fact that you and your wife went to great lengths to make it happen is really heartwarming. Thank you for sharing that story.
I love reading your thoughts about the impact of showing up for people that are not based on familial obligation but rather by choice and out of love. Your perspective is one I cherish so much, Jim. I am so glad you are here. ❤️
One person, shows up sharing herself and we are all the better for it love.
You show us time and time again dear Grace Guide how we can speak love into the narrative, no matter how polarizing the story is. You help us pave a different path, a person-centered one where we stretch and reach out our hands and see each other through our hearts and hold each other worthy of careful attending and time.
I love learning about the FIH measurement and will make this a daily barometer to check with my husband. The vitriol can become a bit much for him as well.
It makes me think of a storyBrene Brown spoke of. When she and her husband get to a busy time in their week or lives they ask each other how much they each come with. One may say “ I got 20” they other May say “ maybe 25?” Anything less than 100 means they sit down to plan. Not a regular how we gonna do this plan but they create a plan of “ kindness with one another.” This was such a pivot for me in how my husband and I plan as well as how I plan with my sweet self as well.
Kindness is our way through.
Thank you Rachel for helping us re-remember who we are, we are kindful kind of people, we are truly human kind, we just forget sometimes and need a brave, beautiful soul to help take us by the hand and whisper to who we are, so we can remember .
I always get some (soul) food for thought when I read your beautiful comments, Debby. This one is on exception. I will savor it and it will nourish me this week.
Grace Guide ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Dear Rachel, your Treehouse letter was exactly what my soul needed today. I needed to be reminded of the kindness, love and goodness of humanity. I needed to be reminded that one loving act can make a difference.
My heart has been aching over the vitriol during this election season. What has been the hardest is seeing it come from friends on FB as well as family members. I have been in such a depressed state over it.
We stop treating each other with dignity.
I was watching show the other day and at the end of it a video was created of beautiful random acts of kindness. My heart swelled with joy. Tears welled up in my eyes. It restored my hope and faith in humanity.
Thank you so much for reminding our beautiful community that we can make a difference "and together, we can create real, positive change and better tomorrows."
Sending you so much love and hugs.❤️
I feel such solidarity every single time I read your words, Linda. "You Beside Me" - this is what helped Avery and I through a hard time. I feel "You Beside Me", Linda, and it's making a difference in my life.
Awww...I feel YOU beside me as well. It helps more than you can even imagine.
❤️
I love this message and essay SO MUCH !
I completely agree that kindness matters, ever more so in these roller coaster days.
I’ve had several FIH moments this week—one of my young adult children going through a rough patch decided to explore local gyms and joined the one deemed the best fit, went for the 2nd time today and felt much better after!
-the other young adult child helped my husband transport the most stunning owl (that took up residence in our backyard) to the nearby wildlife rehab facility, something I thought was very brave-rhat thing was big!
-today I put together a simple little care package for my BFF who will be spending the weekend at a class for her new job. I do NOT mean this in a “tooting my own horn” way, but yet when I have been feeling a mess in all areas lately it was good to remind myself that when there’s a lot out of my control showing up for a friend is still in my control. It really is at least as fun to give as to receive!
Oh Megan, I love your FIH moment descriptions! The owl transport moment made my heart so happy! And this sentence about how it felt to make the care package really resonated with me:
"When I have been feeling a mess in all areas lately it was good to remind myself that when there’s a lot out of my control showing up for a friend is still in my control. It really is at least as fun to give as to receive!"
I adore you, Megan and I am so glad you are part of the treehouse family!
Oh Rachel, your kind words are like a hug for my heart (that reminds me of getting to hug you in person in Indy)!
You and your words are such a treasure ❤️
"If I don't show up, who will?" I love that line for multiple reasons.
#1. Yes, just the act of showing up has a greater impact than we will ever know.
#2. Doing it even through resistance and fear can allow us to show our brains and nervous systems why community and connection is important by being really attentive to the moments that fill us up while there.
#3. I think this is true for ourselves as well. If I don't show up for myself, in all my honesty that I know right now, no one else will, because I am the one who truly knows me best and they won't truly know me unless I show up truly as me.
This morning when I dropped my son off at camp, the kindness of the young college age counselors, who greeted him with excitement, smiles, and connection was truly beautiful! I needed to see that and experience it. I cried leaving because I was so appreciative of their welcoming nature.
FIH meter sounds like an amazing opportunity to honor ourselves and our needs each day. How can I fill my cup and maybe it will spill over onto others?
Oh my goodness, thank you for reminding me of the summer camp drop off experience with college age counselors. They were always so happy to see my girls and it brought such assurance to my heart. The other day, I helped a neighbor out by taking her little girl to art camp, and it was that same feeling of being greeted with excitement and love. I am so glad that routine is still alive and well in the world. That is definitely a Faith in Humanity meter booster.
One thing I am committed to this election season is meeting with someone who thinks differently than I , friends, acquaintances. Gathering together to break bread and break open my heart so it can expand to hold the whole of that persons story. Ni am showing up curious and compassionate so there can be conversation and true human connection. No convincing just a communing of sorts.
Thank you for sharing your commitment to human connection this season and what that looks like for you. This is so helpful.
This was just what I needed today. “I was her someone; my presence matters.” All those little ways we choose to show up and shine really matter! Not only do they offer hope to the world, they offer hope to me. Interacting with the world in this way keeps my heart soft and malleable.
Sometimes you wonder if living this way is of value. He continually reminds me that it is and your words bring so much comfort because I can see someone else values this too and that I am not alone in my pursuit. It’s an encouragement to not lose perspective. Thank you for sharing this snapshot of life Rachel!
You being HERE in the treehouse and taking time to share these vulnerable thoughts MATTERS a great deal to me, RaeAnne. We are kindred souls. I am so grateful for your presence and heart.
Rachel, I'm thinking of the song The World I Know by Collective Soul regarding your essay today:
Has our conscience shown?
Has the sweet breeze blown?
Has all the kindness gone?
Hope still lingers on
I drink myself of new found pity
Sitting alone in New York City
And I don't know why
Are we listening
To hymns of offering?
Have we eyes to see
That love is gathering?
All the words that I've been reading
Have now started the act of bleeding
Into one, into one
So I walk up on high
And I step to the edge
To see my world below
And I laugh at myself
While the tears roll down
'Cause it's the world I know
Oh it's the world I know
I drink myself of newfound pity
Sitting alone in New York City
And I don't know why, don't know why
So I walk up on high
And I step to the edge
To see my world below
And I laugh at myself
While the tears roll down
'Cause it's the world I know
Oh it's the world I know
Yeah, I walk up on high
And I step to the edge
To see my world below
And I laugh at myself
While the tears roll down
'Cause it's the world I know
Oh it's the world I know
WOW! I have never really "HEARD" the lyrics of this song I literally know by heart until you provided context as it relates to my essay. I am blown away. This is amazing, Jeannie!!! THANK YOU!!!!
For some reason music almost always glues certain thoughts and feelings swimming in my mind, especially after I read thoughtful essays like yours, Rachel. Glad this spoke to you, as well.
Rachel,
Once again, the very sentiments you describe in your essay (which are SO BRAVE) mirror my own thoughts these last few days and weeks.
I will begin with a disclaimer: I do not ascribe solidly to any political party. I vote, but I am very moderate in most of my views and with the strong values and convictions I do have, I am usually able to hold space for those whose perspectives are on the opposite end of the spectrum. I listen, acknowledge any triggers in feeling internally, and set them aside to explore later. Then I enter into that person's story, ask sincere questions to gain greater understanding, and I can usually genuinely see why and how they've come to that conclusion.
This practice has become a powerful exercise, especially in our current divisive climate. I've realized that I feel I'm meant to be a peacemaker in this world. I do not say this in a fluffy, kumbaya sort of way. I say it because it emerges from this deep longing I have to bring people together, to be a healer and a positive change agent, to encourage and love all people of all walks of life.
It's because I cannot stand witnessing violence and hurt and loneliness. I know how each of these feels, and as a highly sensitive person, I tend to absorb the pain of others who come to me for advice or support. So I've come to the conclusion that I can do small acts of kindness every day, and even if no one notices or they are ordinary, I know in my heart I'm building those steps towards unity.
Example: I went grocery shopping yesterday with my youngest daughter, Veronica. Every time I do, my cart is overflowing with food (I'm feeding 7 people). What I do is look behind me when I get in line to checkout. And I always offer for people who have a small cart full of items or a handful of things to go ahead of me. It's such a small thing, nothing really, but yesterday two women I allowed to go before I did were grateful. One said, "Wow, are you sure? Really? Thank you so much. You are so kind."
The exaggeration of her response (in my view) led me to believe that most people don't do this anymore, I guess. But it seems like a small gesture that might help someone who needs to get somewhere quickly.
I also make a point to smile and say hi to strangers I pass by at the store or in the neighborhood or throughout the city. Again, it's small, but a smile can go a long way. Many times, people seem shocked and yet I know from being a recipient of someone else's smile that the bottom line is this: we all just want to be seen. Eye contact and a smile makes us feel less alone. That simple connection can fuel a person to maybe pay it forward in their own way.
Maybe it sounds like Pollyanna, but I truly believe these small, simple acts of kindness spread and compound. We can each change the world in our own way, in our own communities and families, by sharing whatever gifts we have - by giving the thing that only we can give.
Oh my goodness, each time you comment, I nod along and feel like I am reading from a page in my own life. I do the SAME thing at the store when I have a lot more than the person behind me and they always seem SOOO surprised and appreciative. I always feel a lift in myself because it shows me also that I have changed my mindset from always being in a hurry. Sometimes I will even tell the person, "I am in no hurry," to convince them that it's ok to go ahead of me. I love being able to say that and know that I live by a slower pace than I used to. Thank you for helping me think about this a bit more and reflect on it. Your beautiful contributions always help me see things more clearly --- plus, I know my thoughts are safe with you.
That's such a fantastic addendum, Rachel: that allowing others to go ahead of us is indicative of living a slower pace. I, too, feel that my most authentic thoughts and feelings are safe with you. So glad that we can be a safe place for one another.
I challenge myself every year since I tuned 38 to perform Random Acts of Kindess from 9/11 to my birthday of how old I will be turning....I can feel my light dimming when chunks of time pass that I do not perform, reflect or recognize the kindness that is everywhere. Thanks for this beautiful reminder of the importance and impact kindness has on the collective human experience!!!! For good news I have found Reasons to Be Cheerful, Fix the News and Positive News, along with Daily Good. (I believe Daily Good is where I found your writing back in 2013 or 2014.) Another great project is You Matter Marathon that I participate in...no running required. There is more good out there then we are told about!!!!! Like Mr. Roger's mother told him, find the Helpers. Anyways, I love this post, love this tree house and love this challenge!
*Seeing two siblings go down the little waterside for the first time, at a field trip was, pure joy!
I love that you connected with me through Daily Good! I have been receiving their emails in my inbox for YEARS and YEARS. I ALWAYS stop to read the latest article they share. It really does lift me up. Thank you for sharing the other recommendations too - as well as the waterslide story!!!
I love the idea of the FIH meter and taking the time to pay attention to restorative moments. My kids returned to school this week, so we have met many teachers and reunited with friends and learned about new opportunities. People work so hard to make a safe and engaging environment for our kiddos---teachers and staff, parent volunteers, our overall community who supports our schools with the weird funding structure we have. A big FIH boost walking the halls.
Tiffany! I am so happy you mentioned the feeling in the hallways at back-to-school events and meet-your-teacher days. You took me right back to the hallway that held hugs and hellos when we moved to our city when Natalie was 10 and Avery was 7. We were all so scared and overwhelmed (everything was bigger) and a teacher sought us out and made sure we were ok. Thank you for highlighting how this environment that feels so uplifting doesn't happen by accident - so so so much hard work and genuine HEART goes into it. Thank you for this celebratory pause today.
Beautiful! Aren’t track meets the best??? Yay, Zoe!!!! We just got back from a family vacation, and it always makes me so happy to see the teenagers interact with the little kids, and the older generation be interested in the lives of the younger, and vice versa. This extended family makes a big effort to get together this time every year, and it means so much that all of these people are invested in time together.
I love this reflection, Carrie! What a powerful observation about interactions across generations. It is wonderful that your family makes these gatherings a priority. Life gets so busy as our children grow that reunions often fall by the wayside. Your beautiful comment reminds us why gatherings with our families (or those we choose to be our family) are so important. I am glad you had that special time, my friend.
Yes! We were missing Lindy since she’s still gone on her summer project, but she can’t wait for next year! It wasn’t the same without her, but still so good and so important!
Track is the best "team" non-team sport I experienced because of the positive energy the kids send to each other in their individual events. The amount of cheering for each other is amazing!
Is there a Treehouse gathering soon? I seem to miss them and would love to spend some time with all of you.
I was just thinking we needed one! Is there a day(s) of the week and time that works well for you? I’d love to have you there!!
I am touched that you would consider my schedule. I'm on the West Coast so normally later (8 pm eastern or later) works better for me but I'm on summer break for a few more weeks so anytime is great right now. Thank you Rachel.
Perfect! I’ll touch base when I figure out the day/time for next week! Thanks for the input!
This is such a beautiful, hopeful and heartwarming post. I need to focus on the FIH meter each day. There is so much negativity in the country right now. Watching the Olympics is always full of FIH moments and makes me feel like the country is united even if it is just for two weeks! My personal FIH moment happened a few weeks ago in my neighborhood. My neighbor who lived across just recently moved to a Board and Care after living in her house for over 50 years. Her family had an estate sale and most of my neighbors bought one or two items that would remind us of her. We bought her big potted plants, outdoor Christmas decorations and wall ornaments so we could be reminded of what a gift she was to our neighborhood when we walk on our street. It brings a smile to my face when I see her decorations! Thank you for sharing your gift of writing with this community. Enjoy your weekend!
This is a beautiful FIH story! I love knowing the impact your neighbor made on so many families and how you chose to honor her.