Kindness is a word that gets thrown around a lot don't you think? We teach children to be kind. Google kindness and you'll be presented with a load of definitions, quotes and ideas on what you can do to be kind.
But, ask yourself, what do you do on a daily basis to show kindness to others? Is it intentional or accidental? Do you ever stop to think about the impact that the smallest act of kindness can have on another person? For example, when did you last ask how someone else was, and 100% focus on their reply?
I'm sure that most of us could all do with a sprinkling of kindness from others but I want to focus on a portion of the population who could always do with a dollop or two to help them through the day. Mums.
On the whole, mums care for others and give kindness in bucket loads whilst often not being kind to themselves or being able to ask others for acts of kindness in return. I hold my hand up and say I am one of these mums!
Mums give, give, give. Challenges and experiences optimise the rollercoaster of life that you can't explain until you are a parent. Sleepless nights, constant questioning wondering if you are doing the right thing, anxiety over the to do list that never goes away (a bit like the never ending pile in the washing basket!) and trying to make time for partners and families leaves its toll physically and mentally. The feeling of not knowing when your next bit of "me time" is coming can leave a feeling of overwhelm.
During a midweek shop, with my toddler busy reading in the trolley seat and my 20 month asleep in my sling, I tried to empty the contents of my trolley onto the conveyor belt. "You look like you are struggling there, let me help", came the gentle voice of a man who looked old enough to be my grandad. I could have hugged him. Thirty seconds of help from a stranger made me feel like I was walking on cloud nine. The kindness of a fellow human beings time was priceless.
Monday 13th November is World Kindness Day. My question to you is, what one thing can you do to spread kindness? If you can focus this towards a mum, you will probably make their day.
Yes it is true, being a mum is the hardest but most rewarding job in the world but a dollop of kindness can go a lot further than you think. And if you are a mum reading this, don't be ashamed to direct a bit of kindness towards yourself, something I know I need to work on. After all, we all know you deserve it!
On Monday 13th November, Bev, who owns Inspired By Joseph photography is running a kindness event offering local parents a free digital photo. Visit her Facebook page for more information.