“Doing something for yourself gives motivation but doing something for others gives meaning.” Maxime Lagace, Canadian professional ice hockey goaltender

What is it about being of service that brings so much satisfaction? How do you feel when you help someone? Do you have expectations? Is it out of duty or obligation? Do you just feel good about it and expect nothing in return? I’ve been reflecting on how communities, families, and individuals come together during times of suffering or crisis. And yet there are those who are willing to help someone each and every day. There are so many ways to help someone and different ways to be kind. What’s your experience.

How often have you called someone to ‘check in’; offered intentions and prayers of healing; paid it forward at a restaurant or grocery store; waved to your neighbor; listened to someone who was grieving; made a meal for someone who was sick; volunteered your time to help an organization or individual; offered a financial contribution to support an individual or organization, adopted or fostered an animal; sent a card to someone who is ill; helped someone move to a new home; given someone a gift of watching their kids while they get away for a bit; or brought flowers to someone ‘just because’? The ways to help others are endless, aren’t they?

The key is to offer your time and talent from your heart rather than duty or obligation. Do something that you feel good about, something that makes you happy. In fact, it can be done anonymously! American Baptist minister and activist, Martin Luther King, Jr, has said “Life’s persistent and most urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” I have found that thinking of ways that are real and manageable – ways that I enjoy and feel good about, is the best way for me to decide. When I think of the suffering all over the world I’m overwhelmed! I remind myself that there are others who are called to tackle large scale ways of helping.This doesn’t mean that they are more important though. I wonder how many people it will take, choosing to do one act of kindness, to make a difference and change the world? How about you?

Some of you might be thinking I’m an idealist. You’re probably right to some degree. I like to think I’m a realist too. What does this make me? Just me, I guess! There are many other experiences we choose while we’re here on the earth plane as well – learning to give and receive love; develop intimate relationships; having courage to speak truth to power; learning there is no separation of our divine nature from our human nature; being kind; finding inner peace and wisdom; experiencing a wide range of emotions; and so much more. However; HRH the Dalai Lama has said “Our prime purpose in this life is to help others. And if you can’t help them, at least don’t hurt them.” How wise, “And if you can’t help them, at least don’t hurt them.”

What does it take to be more aware of and kind to one another? Sometimes my head spins with choices people make to hurt rather than help someone. I know, it’s easy to say “It’s their journey and choice and it’s not mine.” True! Each one of us must make a choice, yes? Each one of us has our own unique and individual journey. However; the choice to help or hurt is ours to make along the way. Are you willing to help? I’m sure that most of you help in so many ways that you don’t even recognize. Please take a few moments and take a few deep breaths with your eyes closed then seek your inner flame of love – the place where you find peace. Reflect and become more aware of the many ways to help and be of service. Reflect and find other ways you would like to help. Be kind and listen to the whispers floating within and around your flame. Listen and feel loved!

Have a wonderful week filled with love and light!

I’m available for private coaching and channeled information sessions at Storm Wisdom on Tuesdays from 1p – 6p by appointment. Please call Storm Wisdom, (602)334-1204 to schedule. I’m also available by phone or Zoom. To schedule please go to victoriabarna.com.