Today, like many other people, I returned to work after the holidays, and knowing the paper work and grant reports that awaited me, I was determined to remain as calm, cool, and collected as I was while off of work. I armed myself with a good attitude, “stress relief” candle, and my favorite ginger and green teas and headed off to work. When I arrived at work exited my car, I was hit with a cold blast of arctic air, and when I entered the day shelter for homeless men, I was hit the harsh reality that my vacation truly had come to an end. I hadn’t even take my coat off, when I was informed that one of the men in our permanent supportive housing program had unexpectedly died over the weekend. As the tears fell and my heart broke, I realized that there weren’t enough candles or tea in the world to fix this, and I just wanted to retreat to my home. Then, I was given every reason to stay.
I composed myself and set about opening my mail, listening to messages, answering emails, and tackling a variety of other tasks, As I darted in and out of my office and made my way through the day shelter, I found myself being warmly greeted and welcomed back to work by the gentlemen in the day shelter. With each kind word and smile, I felt my mood begin to brighten, and my gratitude for their kindness on such a sad and hectic day was immense. With just a few kind words, they made me feel cared about and welcomed, and they reminded me why I feel so honored and privileged to work with the finest gentlemen in all of Louisville.
These special gentlemen reminded me the power and positive impact kind words can have on someone. As I continued to plow through my tasks, I was inspired by the gentlemen to slow down and take time to chat and dispense kind and genuine words of welcome and praise to the people who crossed my path. I noticed the smiles on their faces and heard their words of thanks, and I felt as happy to be kind to them as they were to be on the receiving end of my kindness. Today definitely left me feeling a bit weary, but because of the kindness extended to me, it did not leave me feeling defeated. Tomorrow, I will be back and give it my best once again.
So wonderful how these dear gentlemen reached out to on this sad day. Your prior daily caring and concern have left a lasting impact upon them. Always brings out the best in people.
A touching read, thank you for sharing!
Thank you for ending my day with such very nice sentiments, as it definitely helps and is appreciated. The gentlemen always know how to make me smile:)
I know you treasure the kindness of others and the men at the Center are so very special to have in your life. So sorry for the loss of one of your men,,,,glad you have such a wonderful support system.
Reblogged this on That's Another Story.
LikeLike
Did it work?
LikeLiked by 1 person
It did:)
LikeLike
Kindness is the best therapy 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Indeed it is:)
LikeLiked by 1 person
So wonderful how these dear gentlemen reached out to on this sad day. Your prior daily caring and concern have left a lasting impact upon them. Always brings out the best in people.
A touching read, thank you for sharing!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for ending my day with such very nice sentiments, as it definitely helps and is appreciated. The gentlemen always know how to make me smile:)
LikeLiked by 1 person
Love rules the world…. you are definitely working at the right place. Sorry about your loss!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you so much for your lovely words, especially those of condolences.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am sure your relationships with your homeless clients are deeper than with lots others. They are much closer in heart.
LikeLiked by 1 person
They are truly special to me indeed.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I know you treasure the kindness of others and the men at the Center are so very special to have in your life. So sorry for the loss of one of your men,,,,glad you have such a wonderful support system.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you very much, Sheila. I feel lucky to have them in my life, and my heart breaks with each loss.
LikeLike