1) Tell them repeatedly how awesome they are. It's months and months later and I continue to get wonderful encouragement. These cheerleaders include, but are not limited to: Sara W, Libby, Nicole, Erin S, Rachelle, Dorette, etc. I love the ego boosts!
2) Make something. Anyone remember the beautiful flower pots left 'anonymously on my doorstep on Mother's Day weekend? Nicole and Ronni are the beautiful gifters and who can forget Cheree's homemade chocolate chip cookies made on National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day?
3) Offer to drive. This goes to Teague, Rhacelle and Genine who chauffered me on my countless chemo and doctor's appointments and provided good conversation during those drives.
4) Bring books. I was passed along countless books (electronic and paperback) from Sara W, Stacie, Rhacelle and Kami to help pass the time. I absolutely love to read so each of these lends were well received! I would also include magazines in here from Robyn, Sara W, Rhacelle, Dorette, Michele and Kami.
5) Make a music mix. I was the recipient of many mixed CD's from Robyn which brightened my day, made me laugh out loud and inspired tears during their play. So fun to see what reminds others of you.
6) Give them a call. So many phone calls came my way and each conversation was dearly cherished. Thank you Michele, Kami, Robyn, Cheree, Nicole, Libby, Sara W, Dorette, and those I've forgotten. The time you set aside to check on me was very much appreciated.
7) Send email, eCards, and text messages. All it takes is just a moment, but the impact of the thoughtful words reviewed or created lasts much longer than that. I'm also including those who commented on my blog posts or Facebook: Tammy, Claudine, Kerrie, Valerie, Deana, my Crossroads Small Group, Core 4, Libby, Melody, Kristal, Celeste, Robyn, Sara W, Sara O, Lauree, Sarah T, Michele, and the list goes on and on.
8) Become the best listener ever. Pretty much anyone I talked to throughout this journey felt like the best listener ever, but my top 4 goes to Teague who had to listen to absolutely everything I went through or thought, Kami who went along a very similar journey so she could empathize with each day I went through, Sara Wwho checked on me every single week and kept my spirits up with all kinds of conversations, and Michele who spent countless days with me and helped fulfill great needs....especially companionship.
9) Do what you can, but just do something. Not a week went by FOR MONTHS when I didn't receive a card in the mail, an inspirational text, flowers, gifts, Saint Cupcakes, etc. from someone in my life. Thank you all as you have inspired me to be more mindful of those going through a challenging time and how I can be thinking of profound ways to bring a smile to their face amidst the struggle.
1 comment:
I love that you took time to post about all those who helped you along the way. I can't wait to start paying it forward!
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