From Day 60 in my new book 100 MORE Days of Weight Loss
The two women in the restaurant booth next to me smiled a lot. Over cups of coffee and the senior breakfast special, they chatted quietly about many things. Clearly, they were good friends and companions for each other.
In spite of my efforts to avoid listening to their conversation, pieces of it slipped through. I soon realized that the woman with the flowing white hair asked a lot of questions, often repeating the same one they’d just finished discussing. But each time, her elderly friend quietly responded, using the same warm, caring voice as before.
Throughout the meal, she continued to speak sweetly to her white-haired friend, encouraging and supporting her in every way. When they got up to leave, she gently took her friend’s elbow and guided her toward the door.
When I commented about these ladies to the staff, I learned that, every Monday, the woman picks up her forgetful friend and takes her out for breakfast, treating her with utmost love and respect, even on her worst memory days.
What a gift! These dear ladies reminded me of the importance of kindness and patience in our world. Many times we get so wrapped up in our own struggles or frustrations that we forget how to encourage and support others.
Sharing your gift
Maybe you’ve fallen totally off your diet, or gone weeks without exercise. Perhaps you’re discouraged because you’ve hit a plateau or regained some weight. I’m not suggesting these aren’t important issues or that you ignore working on them.
But this week, maybe you could let go of fretting about yourself and your own weight-loss goals. Instead, focus on your ability to support and encourage others. Think about the words you need to hear, then give these words away to someone else.
There’s something curious about giving encouragement. Even on your darkest days, sharing a tiny ray of hope with someone else will nearly always brighten your own spirit as well. This week, I challenge you to give support to everyone you meet. Seek out those who are troubled or feeling down, and share your gift by calling them or sending an encouraging note.