Heart Light

When did it become necessary to remind society—via signage—to be decent human beings?

This week, I noticed signs posted at the entrances of two local healthcare facilities reminding people to treat staff with respect and kindness. It made me wonder: Do we really need reminders?

Are there studies proving that these signs actually work? I guess we could ask the folks who decided that “Wash hands before returning to work” signs were a good idea. Does a simple reminder alter behavior? I digress… or do I?

On another note, this is the first time I’ve seen “World Kindness Day” acknowledged. Has this been around for a while, or have I been living under a rock?

I have questions.

When someone treats me poorly or provides less-than-stellar service, instead of matching their energy, I try not to take it personally. I remind myself that they may be dealing with struggles I know nothing about. In those moments, I imagine my heart as a light, something I read about many years ago in Marianne Williamson’s book A Return to Love. I mentally “shine” it on them, wishing them well. (Yes, it sounds a bit out there, but it’s been surprisingly helpful.)

As for my own bad days—well, I learned long ago that nobody deserves my troubles poured into their cornflakes.

So, in the spirit of World Kindness Day, here’s my reminder to all of us:

Let’s shine a little light, even on those who may have forgotten theirs.