Tag: acts of kindness

The Pink Hat—Breast Cancer Awareness Month, October 2018

Jeannie Waters3 Comments on The Pink Hat—Breast Cancer Awareness Month, October 2018

I saw the pink hat with the breast cancer symbol first. A young woman and her husband sat on the hotel patio where I sought a quiet place to read. After saying hello, I sat in an unoccupied section and opened my book.

An older lady soon joined us and selected a chair. She asked the younger woman, “Are you a survivor? I noticed your cap.”

“No, but my grandmother died of breast cancer and I wear this cap to honor her,” the younger woman answered.

The newcomer said, “My mom died of breast cancer and I’m a two-time survivor myself. That’s why I like your hat.”

The chatter continued . . . so much for a quiet reading spot. I really didn’t mind though. As the conversation turned to gold (or should I say pink?), I smiled at the camaraderie the two strangers instantly shared. Common ground. Understanding. Sorrow. Victory.

I thought about how we relate to other people. The pink hat with a looped ribbon design was the first connection. There was also the look on their faces—one of acceptance, openness, and an approachable countenance.

I had nodded and said a quick hello before opening my book, but didn’t start a conversation. (My family will tell you I normally meet strangers and learn their life history, but this time, I wanted quiet, which was okay.)

However, I wondered if I was as approachable as these two ladies. Sometimes I’m too busy with my own agenda and desires, but I want to be available to listen when someone needs to talk. I smiled at my book—not seeing the words—as I listened to two women share their experiences.

Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them . . .
                                                                 –Matthew 7:12 NKJV

My reflections about breast cancer

  • One of the first family funerals I attended was for a cousin who lost the battle to breast cancer.
  • My friend Cathy has been clear now for several years and approaches life with gusto and a winning smile. Our entire staff grieved over her diagnosis and celebrated the “all clear.” She recently told me she enjoyed the old-fashioned paper chain we placed in a break room to count down her days of radiation.
  • I’m praying for a friend’s daughter and Anne Graham Lotz who are currently enduring treatment.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

My daughter, a mammographer, called this designation to my attention by posting a reminder for women to take precautions. I’m so proud of her dedication and compassion. She works with an excellent team which is committed to educate and care for women.

What about those of us who haven’t heard the breath-stopping words, “You have breast cancer?” What can we do for those who suffer with it now?

I’m dedicating my October Gifts of the Month post for this cause.

Here are suggestions for being a blessing to ladies who have breast cancer or for anyone who has an extended illness or disease.

Gifts

  • soft pajamas or comfy shirts
  • new robe and slippers for hospital stays
  • a new tote bag for appointment days
  • a devotional book and cheery bookmark
  • a new pillow or throw blanket
  • favorite foods that require little prep
  • an entertaining book she’d enjoy
  • a gift certificate for a manicure
  • flowers or a bulb in a ceramic pot

Acts of Kindness

  • Plan a home movie night with popcorn.
  • Offer to do household chores.
  • Run errands and buy groceries.
  • Take care of her children or visit her aging relatives.
  • Make protein smoothies and stock the fridge.
  • Send funny cards and encouraging texts and emails.
  • Prepare a stack of cards with encouraging Bible verses.
  • Just listen when she needs to talk.

And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.

                                                            -Ephesians 5:32 NKJV

 

Would you share this post with friends?

And please add your thoughts or experiences below.

By the way, do you need to schedule an appointment?

 

For more ideas, see a former post about a friend who encouraged her sister through a tough time.

https://jeanniewaters.com/blog/caring-for-cancer-patients-a-sisters-touch/

Three Ways to Bless Teachers as a New School Year Begins

Jeannie Waters

Vacation time has ended and back-to-school sales fill newspapers and websites. Arms laden with newly-purchased supplies, teachers are scurrying to prepare for a new school year. As a retired teacher, I know well the level of energy educators require, especially in August and September.

The work of preparation (lesson plans, family needs, bulletin boards, classroom design, data entry, meetings, committee work, and more) must take place BEFORE students arrive. Most teachers work long weekday hours and on weekends to ensure a smooth beginning and successful year.

Prayer is the most powerful way to influence the lives of educators and students.

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV

See my post about prayer for suggestions:

Three Ways YOU Can Influence the Lives of Hundreds: Pray for Schools in Your Community

Here are ideas for gifts, acts of kindness, and volunteer activities to encourage teachers you know or those you could meet at a neighborhood school:

Small gifts

  • a small vase of flowers or a green plant for Open House
  • personalized notepads, pencils, or bookmarks
  • gift card for morning coffee or afternoon smoothie
  • basket of healthy after school snacks (plus chocolate!)
  • pretty pencil holder, basket, or tote bag
  • muffins or donuts to share with team members

Acts of kindness

  • assisting with classroom set up or bulletin boards
  • preparing instructional materials
  • labeling folders and other supplies
  • arranging books and learning centers
  • assisting with nametags and backpacks
  • running errands

Volunteer activities

  • read to a class once a week
  • assist struggling readers
  • help with math practice
  • prepare instructional materials at home
  • tutor a high school student in your area of expertise
  • shelve library books
  • work in the school supply store
  • serve as a guest speaker
  • mentor a middle or high school student
  • help a student learning English
  • assist with art projects or musical productions

Each student deserves excellent teachers to guide and inspire them and each geographic area requires productive citizens and a competent work force. Without the dedication and expertise of local educators, how would our communities prosper? These dedicated professionals deserve our support.

                “Be kind to one another . . .”

                –Ephesians 4:32 ESV

How can you bless an educator this year? Please share in the comments section. See my post about praying for schools in your community:

Three Ways YOU Can Influence the Lives of Hundreds: Pray for Schools in Your Community

Window Box Begonias & Mother’s Day Gifts for Older Moms

Jeannie Waters6 Comments on Window Box Begonias & Mother’s Day Gifts for Older Moms

How proud I was to wear a red rose bud pinned to my Peter Pan-collared dress! When I was a little girl, the custom was to wear a corsage or a flower from the yard to church on Mother’s Day. Red or pink honored a living mom; white symbolized a mother no longer living.

My mom always honored my grandmother, her mother-in-law, by either cooking dinner or going to the restaurant of Mamie’s choice. As a child, I delighted in giving gifts to both ladies on that day set aside to honor them.

As my mom aged, it became more difficult to select gifts. The last years of her life, I purchased and planted red begonias in her window boxes on Mother’s Day each year. Even from her wheelchair, she could peer out of the window and enjoy the colorful flowers. This act of service she requested certainly filled my heart with joy.

Many older ladies have everything they need or want, and some cannot enjoy hobbies and activities of the past. Have you faced this challenge with gift selection? I hope the ideas below will help.

Mother’s Day Ideas for Older Moms

Gift Ideas for Older Moms

  • a large print devotional book
  • a digital picture frame loaded with family photos
  • a small vase filled with a bouquet of favorite flowers
  • unscented lotion to soothe dry skin
  • pretty hand towels in cheery colors and pump soap
  • a box of stamped greeting cards to send to friends and family
  • a pretty pair of sunglasses for outings
  • a CD player and favorite music
  • a tin of favorite cookies or candies (health permitting) or a bowl of fresh fruit
  • puzzle books or large print novels
  • a magnifying glass with a pretty magazine
  • a light weight sweater or soft lap throw

 Acts of Kindness for Older Moms

  • Take her to visit a friend.
  • Offer a ride to a church service, library, or concert.
  • Design a card and list special memories inside.
  • Record memories she wants to share.
  • Take a ride to see spring flowers and eat ice cream.
  • Conduct a telephone Bible study with encouraging verses.
  • Prepare lemonade and cookies in her home for neighbors.
  • Plant a flower bed, paint a room, or provide lawn care.
  • Plan a movie night with popcorn and candy.

Honor your father and mother—which is the first commandment with a promise.

        Ephesians 6:2 NIV

Psssssst….one more thought:

For moms whose children won’t be there or moms with young children and no family support, Mother’s Day would be a lovely time to give gifts and offer help. What a blessing!

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.–1 Corinthians 13:4 NIV

Your Turn to Share

Please add your ideas for gifts that have blessed older women you know. If we all share, we’ll have lots of ideas.