Acts of Kindness

It’s funny the things you realize during really difficult times. Since breaking her hip, my mom has been in the hospital, and subsequently rehab, a lot lately. In that setting, whether you’re the patient or the loved one caring for them, you’re in a vulnerable position. We’ve been dependent on nurses, doctors, technicians, food services people and many others to provide Mom with what she needs. 

We’ve been blessed to have had some standout individuals caring for her. During morning rounds, her surgeon took the time to put a sock on her bare foot. A  nurse stayed late to pitch in and give Mom some much needed post surgery pain meds during a hectic shift change. A charge nurse took over for a very busy nighttime nurse when she saw Mom needed more hands-on care. 

Besides the hospital and rehab staff, we’ve employed caregivers to spend time with Mom at various times throughout the day, as well as nighttime. It’s been a godsend. These women have brought such joy and light to my mom and me. I honestly could not have walked through these past weeks without them. Their presence has allowed me to rest easy knowing that Mom is being well cared for. 

Spending time in a hospital or rehab facility can be mentally and physically draining. Taking the time to chat with those who are caring for my mom has helped not only break the monotony; it’s also given me an appreciation for them and their passion for helping and bringing comfort to others. It’s brought home to me the importance of kind words and actions. 

The takeaway for me as someone in the hospitality business is this: I have the ability as a host to go the extra mile when interacting with guests. I can also do that during interactions with others on a daily basis. While doing what’s expected is great, going above and beyond to demonstrate acts of kindness is where the real blessing occurs.

Sometimes our guests may be going through a difficult time - the loss of a loved one, a breakup, work issues, burnout. It’s not always obvious and most people don’t tell their problems to someone they’ve just met. Giving someone the benefit of the doubt and treating them with kindness is HUGE. We have no idea how much it can transform a person's day or even their life by saying just one kind word or performing one kind deed. 

I’ve been the recipient of so many acts of kindness lately. Paying it forward is one small thing I can do to encourage and bless those around me. 

This piece first appeared in Sherry’s column, Finding Myself in a Small Town, in the April 20, 2024 edition of the Corsicana Daily Sun.