Last week, I found myself silently using the phrase “I want to be that person” as I saw small acts around me. None were related to size, status, clothing or other material goods. It was an internal reaction I was having to other people doing good in the world. As a mom, I find that we let others/the media/blogs/magazines/the internet tell us who we should be, often with unattainable goals.
So in honor of all whom I saw doing good last week, I’ve made the following list of who I can be, with little effort, but concentrated attention to my actions and words. I can…
Be the person who:
- Emails or texts friends to let them know I’m thinking about them
- Reaches out to create community, instead of waiting for community to come to me
- Smiles at a mom who is in the trenches
- Takes the neighbors an extra serving of whatever I’m baking
- Is happy with the small differences I can make
- Gives a compliment when it’s deserved
Be the wife who:
- Let’s him parent his way
- Is grateful for a partner
- Says thank you for all the efforts
- Doesn’t fuss about the small things
- Focuses on my husband more than the to do list
Be the mom who:
- Says “I love you” more
- Lets the kids catch fireflies instead of going to bed
- Teaches my kids right from wrong
- Models polite, respectful behavior, instead of demanding it
- Puts my phone down and watches the world instead of documenting it
- Tells the kids something great about themselves before they fall asleep
