New Neighbors?

Got new neighbors? We do! So I decided to bake up a delicious pumpkin roll and introduce myself and the kids. I've finished the baking and will go over hopefully today if the weather permits. I am totally a non-outgoing person, so it's a big step for me, but I know it'd bless me if someone did it for me. So as a tip be aware of those around you and little ways you can bless others. Holding the door for someone even if you're in a hurry, letting a mother with her screaming baby go ahead of you in a line, mailing or emailing someone a get-well note. I'm sure this is probably everyday stuff for a lot of you, but some people (like myself) need to be reminded from time to time to look outside my little box to see those around me who could use a hand or a smile.

Handicap Helper

I was in the store the other day and noticed an elderly lady in front of me in one of those motorized chairs. She looked like she wanted something from a shelf that was higher than she could reach. Uncharacteristically of me (Wow! I just realized how long of a word that is! Isn't it like 20 letters? Gracious!) *ahem* Anyways, as I was saying, I offered my assistance to her. She actually was just trying to decide on what she wanted and didn't need my help.

But this scenario got me thinking. I wonder why I am so shy to help those around me, especially the needy ones. We've grown up in a society where anything that is not "normal" should not be made an issue for fear of hurting someone's feelings. I guess that has paralyzed me in many respects in offering my help to those who are handicapped. I'm afraid they will be insulted that I offered or even insinuated that they were not capable of doing things themselves, when the truth is - they can't!

I've actually noticed that most handicapped people really appreciate a helping hand and don't seem to have any qualms about asking for assistance when they need it. So what is this ridiculous feeling of being embarrassed to help out? I don't know, but I've just realized I need to get over it if I am going to be a witness and show love to my "neighbor". Also, it made me think I am being an example to my children. If I am awkward and/or callous to those around me who need my help, I am sending a message about those types of people to my children. And since I was just talking to the girls about the Good Samaratine (sp?) I figured I better start now. After all, more is caught than taught!

Cashier Kindness

When I was younger and would accompany my mother to the grocery store, my mother would occasionally bless the cashier by buying her a little treat from the checkout selection. This act usually blessed the woman very much and I always thought it was a small witness. So, I thought next time I'm out I would try that. I was thinking I would do it if I noticed the person were efficient, cheerful or a good bagger. Then I thought maybe I should do it to someone who seemed to be having a bad day. Then I realized I should do it no matter what - just to bless them. I don't think it will matter if the person is on a diet, or allergic to nuts or has an aversion to caramel. It is the act. So, I want to try that next time I go shopping! :) (Having said all that, I don't know if stores are really strict now and won't allow their employees to accept things from their customers. It'd seem weird, but you never know now 'a days!)