A few years ago, I was casually doing my grocery shopping.
As I cruised the aisle; I became aware of a pair of men who were standing quite close to me.
One of them would have been around fifty years old; and the other, about seventy.
The younger of the two was clinging to the older man’s arm; loudly talking about what was in their shopping cart.
He had a disability, and I could tell that they were father and son by the intimate way that they were interacting.
I discretely watched them walk past. They were both smiling widely, arm in arm. The Dad was patiently answering every question that was thrown his way.
I felt admiration.
They were literally love personified. I began to wonder what kind of struggles and triumphs they had experienced together throughout their lives. What obstacles had they conquered along the way?
I imagined how difficult it must have been to raise a child with a disability; let alone all the way into late adulthood.
It wouldn’t have been an easy ride.
I realised that the Dad was a super-hero.
It got me thinking; why do we praise certain members of society and put them on pedestals; while the real heroes live their lives quietly unnoticed?
Why do we go into raptures over people who have perfect eyebrows or peachy arses; yet show zero appreciation for those who display TRUE values like compassion and kindness?
In 2019 we are being encouraged to look as hot as we can while chasing paper; instead of being taught to work on making our spirits beautiful.
With the energy of the world as haywire as it is right now; it’s more important than ever to be kind to one another. It’s not always obvious from the outside what struggles each of us are going through.
Treating each other well is something we can do anywhere, any time and for free.
I really love the thoughtful and considerate culture of the Balinese.
They always speak respectfully to others; in a gracious and friendly manner. It is so refreshing, and one of the things that I most appreciate about this beautiful country.
However; I have also seen some really ugly things since being here.
I’ve seen tourists literally scream at locals; simply because they can’t speak English well. It’s as if they think that if they yell loudly enough, it will improve the language barrier.
It won’t.
I’ve seen others behave like Neo from The Matrix; stepping boldly into traffic, holding up one hand - expecting the entire world to stop just for them.
And then; there’s the haggling…
Don’t get me wrong. I’m all for not being ripped off. But I cringe every time I visit street markets; and see cliche tourists bargain-wangling.
You can see the arrogance dripping from some of them; as they scoff loudly at prices and pretend to walk away. Their faces proud as they get chased by stall holders, who are desperate for a sale.
If they were real with themselves; they would recognise that they are actually haggling over what is one or two dollars in their currency.
One or two dollars.
That one or two dollars may actually make a difference if you’re living on Balinese wages.
Is it worth feeling cool over saving yourself a couple of bucks; or would society be better off if you were fair and kind, instead?
I’ve seen taxi drivers get told to “fuck off” by tourists who are sick of being offered rides.
Sure, it can be super overwhelming fending off the barrage of transport proposals you get here.
But chill.
It’s not that hard to smile and politely say: “No thanks. Just walking.”
I’m amazed to see people treating others so badly; particularly when they are guests in this country.
It’s so important that we show respect and kindness to each other all the time. Even if you are hot and bothered. Even if it is the millionth time that you’ve been offered a taxi ride.
We need to look out for each other more. The world needs REAL super heroes. Here’s a little list of habits to add to your repertoire. Please use them daily. Kindness is like a muscle. The more you practice it, the stronger it will get.
Do these things until they become natural, because at the end of the day, we’re all in this together.
1. Smile:
It makes everyone’s day so much sweeter.
2. Listen.
It may take a few minutes out of your day to stop and listen; but it just might mean the world to someone.
3. Give compliments.
Make it your mission to make others feel good about themselves.
4. Say thank you.
If someone helps you, make sure you show gratitude. Don’t assume they already know that you appreciate their efforts.
5. Let go of grudges.
Make peace with someone who has offended or hurt you. It will bring you inner peace as well.
6. Let people know you love them.
Don’t assume they already know that you do.
7. Choose your words.
Carefully consider what ever you are going to say. Words can’t be taken back. Are you speaking with positive intention?
8. Help somebody.
Your lightening the load may make someones day.
Let’s raise the vibe together!
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