Simply Making A Difference

There is often a perception that one needs to do something significant to make a difference, yet it is often the simplest acts that can be so meaningful and memorable.?

In a world with so much hustle and bustle, with so much activity vying for our attention, we can get so “busy” that it can be easy to overlook the small and meaningful actions we can take to make a positive difference in the lives of others. ?A simple act of kindness can transcend the moment and create a meaningful and memorable experience for the giver, as well as the receiver.?

I was recently walking on a beach when I noticed a man throwing a ball for his dog.? He fell to his knees in the sand and was having difficulty getting up.? It struck me at the time that, sadly, no-one had seemed to notice or stop to help him when he was clearly struggling.

We went to help him get up.? Once on his feet, he stumbled and fell again.? We helped him up again and he stood there unsteadily, finding it difficult to throw the ball for his dog and maintain his balance at the same time.??

Miraculously, a short distance away, a piece of driftwood was washed up on the shoreline.? It was the perfect height and resembled a walking stick, so we took this to him.? He was able to lean on it for support and throw the ball for his dog, ever so grateful that someone had taken the time to help him.?

He shared that he had a medical condition that impacted his balance.? Despite his physical challenges, he had a strong desire to enjoy his time on the beach with his beloved dog.? He was determined to relish in the simple abundance of the moment.

As our evening stroll came to an end, I looked back several times to see if he was okay.? There he was, leaning on the piece of driftwood, repeatedly throwing the ball for his dog.? The memory of him and the joyful moments he was experiencing remain etched in my memory.

We all need to feel seen, supported and valued.? Life presents many opportunities to make a difference in a meaningful way.? By being present and observant, gifts for giving show up daily.

Never underestimate what a simple act of kindness can do.?

A smile, acknowledgement of another or stepping in to help can make a huge difference to someone.? Everyone needs support and someone, or something, to lean on.