I was grocery shopping earlier today. I went early in an attempt to beat the heat. My theory came up short since it was already 85 degrees while the mercury was rising by the time I returned to my car. What a blessing to have an air-conditioned automobile.
Reflecting on my shopping experience I made an effort to smile at people, say hello, and thank the staff for their service. Several shoppers and staff seemed already preoccupied with the heat or they were hurting about something in their life. I am reminded that when I connect with people I have no idea what they are going through or what is on their mind.
I believe in the power of one. I took the time to find out from the cashier that he was leaving on vacation this Friday to see his 92-year-old mother. As I walked away I turned back to him and said, “Enjoy your vacation”.
With a smile on his face, he responded, “Thanks”
The person who bagged my groceries had some type of disability. She appeared to be happy to have a job. She was kind to her boss who approached her about an issue and she asked me if it was ok to put my meat in a bag with other groceries.
So what does all this have to do with mental health? Whether someone appears happy or preoccupied, “You never know what someone is going through. A few nice words can help a person a lot more than you think” (Power of Positivity).
Peace
Larry
email: ljw@superhumanbeing.net
website: https://superhumanbeing.net/