Hello friends!
I’d like to share an inspiring story with you today, in hopes that you’ll join me in implementing a little extra kindness into our lives, and the lives of those around us, to make the world a better place.
Currently, being unemployed, I have nothing but time. But, I’m quite proud of myself for staying productive every day. I cook, I read, I write, I research, and all the usual things that go about changing careers. What I don’t do typically, is turn on the tv during the day. However, last week sometime I was in need of a break, so I treated myself to a cup of tea and turned on the TV, tuning into the Ellen Degeneres Show. Now mind you, these breaks are rarely productive, however I was really glad when I heard the story of a California mum of two, Jodi Fisher.
Jodi was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer some seven years ago, and after experiencing the hope of remission, it came back in full force. Despite everything, Jodi says: “I stay positive, try not to focus on the negative, and be grateful for all the things that I do have.”
Enter the Fun List. In talking with her daughter, they started to write down experiences they would like to have as a family – this became her “bucket list,” which they renamed the “fun list.” Jodi said that the list “is about spending time together, making good memories, and experiences.” Touched by the kindness of others while she’d been fighting the dreaded disease, she said that the fun list also acted as a way to give back. On her birthday one year for example, she and her family drove an ice cream truck around her hometown, handing out free ice cream. How fun and happy inducing is that?!
Jodi’s fun list included (among other things!) traveling with her family, renting a limo simply to go get french fries (awesome!), and meeting President Obama. The last thing on her list was to attend a taping of the Ellen Show.
In introducing her guest, Ellen said that she, and the show, tries to inspire people to be “happier, positive, and kinder to each other.” It’s what Jodi took the time to say to Ellen that really resonated with me: ”It makes me feel good that we have people like you in the world that are inspiring and stand up for people, because, you probably know, a lot of people don’t do it. Like when you say ‘just be kind,’ it’s huge! And if everyone did just a little bit, I think we’d live in a better place.”
I couldn’t agree more! Treat others the way in which you wish to be treated. Be kind. Pay it forward. Seriously, if we all make a little extra effort to be considerate and thoughtful, and greet others with a smile, we are bound to transform our world, one act of kindness at a time.
Unfortunately, shortly after appearing on the Ellen Show, Jodi Fisher lost her battle, but she left us with a reminder to be happy, spirited, grateful and kind.
I hope you find a little inspiration in this story. If you are so inclined, you can watch the original segment here.
As always, live well, eat well, be well!
