This is an excerpt from our Summer 2016 issue. Read our 4 other stories by subscribing soon so we can post you a copy or picking up a magazine from one of our lovely stockists all over Ireland. Tell them we said hello!
Becky Owens
The strange thing about tragedy is how it affects the senses. Smells seem more intense, and sounds that were once pleasant, like carefree laughter, can be stress-provoking instead. I remember a few years back while I was living abroad, on a particularly bad day after receiving some crushing news; I’d taken a walk to clear my head. Strapped for cash at the time, I decided to get a small hot chocolate with no extras. It was not what I usually ordered, but it was all I could afford. When it came time to pay, the barista presented me with a large chocolate topped with whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles. At first I thought he’d gotten my order wrong, until he wouldn’t accept any money for it. He said I looked like I was having a bad day, so he made my usual order and told me it was on him, I deserved a treat. That seemingly small kindness impacted me more than the barista probably imagined. Every sip was a comfort to my heightened senses, a reassurance. I had gone from feeling isolated, alone, to feeling cared for. It was the best cup of hot chocolate I’ve ever tasted.
Timmy Flaherty
I think I’ve always carried out small acts of kindness for others but it never really impacted my life in a big way. Truth be told; doing little things for others used to be a way of trying to fill some void inside of me, even though it never really worked. Thinking people might notice me, like me, tell me I’m of some value etc. Accepting gratitude as a substitute for love. And these things did happen, but I always still had that empty feeling in my heart. Two years ago I reconnected with myself/my heart/ soul/ spirit/Source/God/ Universe, whatever you wanna call it, and now these little acts of kindness towards others have a massive impact on my life. Every positive connection with another soul brings me closer to not only them, but me and Source too. It’s win/win/win. It’s like I’m constantly filling up my soul with something divine, then that shows in every area of my life.
This is an excerpt from our Summer 2016 issue. Read our 4 other stories by subscribing soon so we can post you a copy or picking up a magazine from one of our lovely stockists all over Ireland. Tell them we said hello!
