Kindness -- It's so nice in these hard times

Good morning,
I had such a great experience this morning and wanted to share it with you.
Lately, people's spirits have been a little downtrodden. People are anxious... well, downright worried about the economy and if we're going to hell in a hand basket.

I've wondered if that anxiety might begin to impact people negatively in terms of how they might be around others. I live in NYC. We're around people all day long. There are hundreds on the subway together and on the streets. Usually, despite what outsiders sometimes think, people here are pretty friendly and helpful. So, I've been concerned about whether it would stay that way ... given the times.

Well, this morning I had an early appointment with a coaching client. I normally don't have to leave my apartment early and ride the subway (since I work at home) .. but today, I had to be at his office at 9:00 a.m. When I got to the subway station and ran my metro card through the slot -- it didn't work. I realized my monthly card had expired and I needed a new one. I started to step away from the entry and the man behind me (a baby boomer aged person, by the way) said ... "I"ll give you a swipe." I thanked him.

Now, why is that a big deal? First, one single ride is $2.00. He had to be giving away one of his slots. Second, it was such a gesture of kindness. The train was pulling in and he genuinely wanted me to make it. Third, there was no expectation of anything in return -- we would most likely never see each other again. Fourth, in a time when people could be "contracting" inward ... he reached out with generosity. I was impressed.

So, now, my responsibility is to "pass it forward."

As I returned to my neighborhood from my appointment (yes, having purchased a new metro card)... I didn't just walk past the contribution jar on the table on the street which collects for the homeless. I stopped and put something in the jar.

Point: No matter how difficult it seems, if we reach out with generosity, it will spread like wild fire. And, it's important to always be grateful for what we do have and to be of assistance to those who have less.

Here's another case in point. I currently have several very close people I care about who are not doing well. They are experiencing grave financial issues and are threatened to lose their domiciles. It's scary for me to be around them. I go into that fear of "there but for the grace of God go I." Now, I'm not religious and I don't know why that pops into my head, but it does. I'm often fearful about the "what ifs..." You know, what if I don't get new clients or new speaking gigs or what if I run out of money? What if I need to find a job ... after not working for anyone else for over 20 years ... what if I'm not hireable or I'm too old ...... and on and on.

However, when I get to a space like that ... I take a deep breath, allow myself to feel the fear (for a short time) but not dwell in it. Then, I get into action and do something. I either focus on creating a result -- e.g. pick up the phone and call a prospect or write an article or something OR I take time for a distraction, e.g. take a walk, run an errand, have lunch with a friend.

One last point -- when I reach out to others and am generous in spirit ... it goes a long way. I feel better, they feel better. That man swiping his card for me this morning ... well, it made my day. I'm so appreciative.

Go forth and be generous ... think beyond yourself and your immediate needs ... see how it spreads and generates spirit.

Have a lovely day.