I was a pretty young California bride when I first visited North Dakota to meet my late husband Davids family.
I had grown up in an entirely different world than the mostly Scandinavian culture here. I wasnt sure what the family would think of me.
But, as I met them and grew to love them, I knew it would be OK.
Davids cousin Noel became special to me. She welcomed me without judgment, even though I had married the ” favorite” of the family.
July 4 this year, I found out Noel was probably going to pass. Daughter Velvet and I went to visit her on what turned out to be a wonderful visit. We were able to say our goodbyes.
Yesterday, Noel finished her journey just as she wished.
At our visit, she told us how eager she was to see those who had gone first. What a reunion in the sky there must have been.
Noel was loved by many, and much of that love stemmed from the kindness she showed to the rest of us.
This past week, Tom and I traveled to South Dakota for a Home Free concert. It, too, was filled with reminders that we need to show each other kindness.
We all learned, ” do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” I agree.
Its time we all went back to the basic truths we learned as children. Arent we still teaching those words to our children and grandchildren?
Practice what you preach.
Like Noel, I make an effort to be kind.
The hotel we stayed out in South Dakota had great reviews and an excellent rating. That wasnt exactly the reality of it once we checked in. Even so, with one disappointment after another, I remained calm and polite. I didnt forget my kindness. I maybe would have liked to take someone by the throat to get their attention, but I didnt. I didnt forget my kindness.
Furthermore, Im home now and life is good today. –