Spring Renewal at Robinson Gardens
"A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees."
- Amelia Earhart
Now more than ever, in these uncertain and unsettling times, a little kindness can go a long way. Kindness can be the most valuable gift that you will ever give someone. Being kind costs nothing, but is truly one of the richest and most powerful tools in life. No matter how simple the act of kindness may be, it gives us the opportunity to change someone's day and even perhaps their life. Kindness can soften an angry heart, stop tears, mold relationships, create confidence, give love, and heal wounds. You can be the reason that someone smiles or feels loved or is reminded that there is goodness in others.
Kindness is reciprocal. It benefits both the giver and the receiver. The giver feels good that they have done something for someone else with no expectation of gratitude. The recipient has been reminded of their value, that they are worthy of notice. Imagine the ripple effect you may have by simply smiling at a stranger. Everyone we meet in life has their own story, their own burden to carry. A kind word or a caring act helps us all rise up. We should especially be kind to unkind people as they need it the most, and it will confound them. Never underestimate the power of a gentle touch, a smile, a kind word or a listening ear.
This week, let's spread some sunshine in the lives of others. Plant some seeds of kindness and watch what grows. It will make you feel better than you have in a long time.
With gratitude and hope,
Random Acts of Kindness
- Smile at a stranger.
- Let someone go in front of you in line if they only have a few items.
- Let someone know what a great job they are doing.
- Send a positive message to five friends.
- Try to make sure that everyone is included in a meeting.
- Offer to babysit, so a couple can get out of the house.
- Leave a larger tip for a server who has been particularly nice...even if it is takeout.
- Let someone know what a difference they have made in your life.
- Leave a note on someone's car with a "Have a nice day" message.
- Surprise someone with freshly baked cookies.
- Donate to a food bank or shelter.
- Set your phone alarm for twice a day, and do something nice for someone else.
- Pay for the groceries for the next person in line.
- Take flowers to someone.
- Practice self-kindness.
This week we welcome the newest member of our Friends family, Paola Villar Werstler, who is sharing a delicious summertime salad recipe. Paola is an Executive Director at Cedars Sinai hospital who was instrumental in getting us permission to set up our "succulent nurse" in the Healing Gardens at the hospital.
OLIVE/MUSHROOM SUMMER SALAD
- 2 cups chopped mushrooms (shitake, white button varieties work well)
- 1 cup chopped black olives
- 1 cup chopped parsley
- 2 T vinegar (apple cider or balsamic, your preference)
- 2 T olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients and refrigerate for an hour or more. Any leftovers are a great pan starter for chicken or fish!
Paola and her husband, Chris, paid a visit to wonderful Jeanne Anderson in her amazing home garden. Chris, a serious garden enthusiast, shared these photos of Jeanne's bountiful blooms.