Sharing moments of joy with those around us to lift us all

Over the past two weeks so much happened, and at a rapid pace. Mostly I can see the uncertainty in peoples faces and at times this brings out fear. It is true position for each of us, as it is unrepresented times, however there is one thing that we can all rely on and that comes from within.

We all have the ability to be more social aware, to be compassionate and to show empathy. Whilst we are all suffering, I am sure that there are some people far worse off than the general public.

I noticed over the past week, being back at home and walking the dogs that we have had people sleeping in the park. This particular park does not tend to attract homeless people as there is no shelter so it is open to weather conditions. I had noticed one man in particular sleeping on the same bench both in the mornings and in the evenings, so I thought I would drop off a bag of treats (sealed biscuits and Crips chips and some bananas) and left them in bag next to him one night as he slept for him to find. Later that night it had rained so I wondered where he may be and in the morning I noticed the bag was gone but he still lay in the same spot so I hope that he had taken the items but then again it may have been taken by passers bye so I went home and sliced up a banana and berry loaf that I had baked and placed pieces in sealed containers and went back and left it next to him so he had a treat when he woke up.

I cannot imagine being on my own, not having someone to share a thought with, nobody to sit with to share a meal, nor can I imagine not having a bed to sleep in at night and a loving family to share a home with.

We have many vulnerable people around us in the world, people who may need just a smile, or a hello to break the “space” and “environment” that they are living in. Bringing joy to someone, whether it is stranger or a friend, family is the most valuable asset we have so if I could encourage you to find a way that works best for you so you can share it.

In many ways we are fortunate, as we live in a society that helps us stay connected. Let’s use technology in a positive way.

When we can have discussions that bring about positive thoughts, this changes our psyche, it actually changes us at a cellular level. There is much information that is broadcasted at the moment however the language used could at times be with a more positive tone, so let’s unite and look at the silver lining that exists around us.

Heartache and lack of empathy

Two weeks ago, I spoke with my dad and he asked when I would be home. He was in hospital after a fall, but recovering and I said I would be past on the weekend to visit him. Whilst he was weak, he was optimistic about an appointment that was scheduled later that week for him back in Sydney. Sadly, two days later he had a fall in hospital that was detrimental.

I was travelling down to see him the day of that fall and to be with my mother, and on my way I received a phone call from an Event company. I had committed to sponsor an event on the 26th March (I entered that contract last year) and they released an email the day before (Monday 16th March) advising the event was proceeding on the 26th March, however that phone call was from the General Manager of the Event Company – whom had never spoken with me prior to that moment, called to let me know that they were going to postpone the event. I had indicated that I was heading to see my unwell father but happy to have the chat whilst I was travelling.

He advised that he wanted to know if I would be available later in the year for the EVENT (I was also due to give a Key Note) and I indicated that in light of everything going on, I would not be in a position to commit to the event if it was to be postponed and I made a point of say that their email only the day before stated that it was proceeding. I advised that I had allowed time and cashflow for the agreed date not a later date but I would be happy to consider the opportunity when things were finalised but as they were not going to proceed, I would appreciate a refund. I must say I was surprised by what he stated to me next…. “we are a small business and if we refund all money given to us, we could go bankrupt”.  

Whilst still in shock at his response knowing very well that I am a small business myself, I reminded him, like most people, me included, I was a small business too and carrying their cashflow for a potential event was not ideal for me. He then stated he needed to make another call and that he would be in touch in a couple of days. As of writing this article (some 12 days later, I have not heard back from him, despite sending a follow up email to his staff/ office).

Silver lining and humanity at its best

When I arrived at hospital, despite the chaos across the globe and the impact on our hospitals, I could not have asked for more compassionate and empathetic staff. Everyone around the clock was absolutely amazing with dad and us.

Sadly, the decline in my dad’s health took its toll on my mum which lead to her being admitted to hospital, a different one to that of my father.

The loss of my father, sadly was whilst mum was still in hospital, and once again the staff at the other hospital were likewise tremendous. So much empathy, and compassion shown by those surrounding us. It has been incredible and I am so grateful. We have had people send love to us from across the globe.

Silver lining keeps shining

My mother is now home with us and she has been tremendous, despite her pain and loss. Her life partner of 65 years gone and her health still somewhat in the wings, she has attempted to stay strong for those around her.

When I look at some of the challenges we have faced since coming home, I realise that life has many turns and sometimes we don’t know why things happen, but there is always a reason.

Some 3 years ago, my daughter changed careers. She was studying to be a teacher, but changed degrees and her career to become a carer for people with disabilities and special needs.

Seeing her as a young 23-year-old step in to help me shower and dress my mother has been a blessing. Things are exactly the way they are meant to be. Likewise having my son working from home (which would never have occurred had the “Corona Virus” not broken) has enabled him to be home during some challenging times. Mum watching him work takes away her focus on her loss. Again, things are the way they were meant to be.

So, as I walked the park in sunshine whilst walking the dogs this morning, it dawned on me that there is always a silver lining in life. We just need to be prepared to find it and to focus on the good rather than the negative.

·      We were fortunate to still be able to attend my father’s funeral, despite number restrictions, we were there as a family.

Let’s all look for the one thing in our lives today that we can be grateful for.

Let’s all look at one way that we can lift the life of someone around us.

We have the opportunity to change the outcome of the times that we are living so why not look at attaining a positive outlook.

I will keep posting as I know that spreading positivity is what we need in these trying times.

Stay positive across the globe and spread good will.

Be Compassionate and have empathy.

Cathy Dimarchos

Soutions2you.com.au