The “Ripple Effect;” Kindness in Tough Economic Times

The morning news was getting worse by the day. More layoffs, job losses, cut-backs.  Local businesses closing their doors. The ripple effect of fear.  I went into our local dry cleaners. I had not seen her for several months, where we used to see her every week.  We had to cut back.  She was so happy to see me and I her. She is such a bright spot, with a lovely smile and a servant’s heart. Sorry we haven’t been in lately. Things have been challenging and we’ve had to cut back. “So many others have as well,” she said. “Some don’t even come in to collect their items, as they don’t have the money.”

I gave her my small order.  As she wrote it up she smiled “this one’s on me.”  I protested -no, no, no, you can’t!  “Yes, it is my gift to you. Consider it like taking you to dinner. You have been a faithful client for years.  It would be my pleasure.” I left there with tears in my eyes. Tears of gratitude, bathed in the warmth of human kindness. This “ripple effect” of kindness is much stronger and sustaining than the negative news. Love overriding fear. Gratitude healing the doubt.

Quote for 2009

“The highest state of man is interdependence, but I would say an even higher state is a group of interdependent folks working together towards a restorative, sustainable goal that improves the lives of everyone they touch.” Stephen Covey Read more

Just In Time For the New Year - A Video to Encourage You!

Exactly one year ago last week, I created an inspirational video entitled “Step Out In Faith.” It was part of a motivational speaking contest set in place by my Coach, John Di Lemme. Making that video was one of the most difficult things I have ever accomplished because I had to dig deep into my heart to find the courage and my own voice. A lot has changed in this past year. Miraculously, I have taken my own advice and stepped out in faith. In February ‘08, I left a sales and marketing job in the hospitality field to go back into my own marketing business full time. Some folks said “what are you nuts - do you know how tough the economy is?” etc. But I was undeterred. Now, a year later, the economy is “even worse” but I am still undeterred. Furthermore, my husband has stepped out in faith and joined me full time. I am grateful that God has given me the grace and the strength to move forward. The opening line to last year’s post still applies: In this busy holiday season with the prospect of the New Year looming, maybe you could use a little emotional “pick-me-up.” I sincerely hope to encourage you, to cheer you on and to share our knowledge and experience in the new year. God bless and keep you,

Malia