I’m on Day 23 of my Birthday Kindness Project, in which I write a love letter to a stranger every day for as many years as I’ve been alive.
As I’ve done in years gone by, I want to invite you to hold these people in your hearts along with me.
I believe in the power of love and energy sent someone’s way, even if we don’t know them.
For privacy, I never share too many details about the recipients of the letters. But just this week I wrote to someone whose son was killed in a tragic death, a grandmother who lost a newborn grand baby, a college grad who feels lost and scared — as if her dreams are already broken, someone who lost her job and has to move, and a widow who is lonely and ill.
Even though you don’t know the names or faces of these people, they are real. They are hurting.
Could you close your eyes for a moment and send a little love to each of them.
I like to think that when we do this, something happens where they are. You know, like each person has a sudden feeling of peacefulness rush through them. Perhaps they have a memory of something that makes them smile. Or maybe a hummingbird pauses, mid-flight near them, and the person feels blessed.
We can also send out general love to people who are in pain all over the world. Just pause for a few breaths and think about everyone who could use a boost of love. Imagine strangers smiling as you think of them and help ease their pain.
Now, take a moment to also send yourself and all of your loved ones some good thoughts. May you be happy. May you be healthy. May you be well.
Being human can be incredibly difficult when there is deep loss, fear, or loneliness.
It can also be so beautiful.
We need one another to hold it all.
Thank you for being a part of my world and for sharing in my birthday project. 