August 6 - Seen & Valued

Day 217 of a year of Kindness

Kindness ambassador #18, Wrenda Goodwyn, made others feel seen on a hot Florida summer day.

During these hot summer days, I worry about those who have to work outdoors. And no one works harder in this excruciating heat than the landscapers who show up once a week. They edge and cut and trim the tiny yards in my Estero neighborhood. Yes, I know they get water from the orange container but on a hot day, it’s nice to have a cold, almost frozen, bottle of water and I add in a selection of health bars.

These are workers who feel frightened, unseen and mostly mistreated by what is happening in our country right now. It’s more than a snack. It’s letting them know that we care, appreciate their hard work and that we see them. It’s easy and a tiny act of kindness. I feel that it’s the least I can do on a hot day.

Science of Kindness: Research shows that creating a connection with others who often feel invisible - service workers, the elderly, the disenfranchised - offers a valuable connection that is essential for mental health. There are multiple opportunities in our daily lives to engage with someone in a meaningful way that tells them they are seen and valued. #kindness #kindnessisfree #kindessmatters #gratitude #awareness