A story on kindness: How my Gran impacted my future.
This is a story of how the kindness from a Grandmother impacted Lorna’s future without her even being aware.
‘Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions.’ Dalai Lama
My happiest memories from my childhood are the days I spent with my wonderful Grannie. She was incredibly selfless, ensuring everyone around her felt loved and cared for.
As a young child, I remember visiting elderly neighbours with her, doing their shopping, keeping them company and baking cakes with Gran for them. She continued doing these kind deeds even when she struggled to walk, as arthritis made walking a real challenge.
I have many vivid memories of Gran helping others.
On one occasion, an elderly lady had fallen near the library and badly hurt her head – I must have been about four.
Gran lay in the road with the lady, talking kindly to her and cradling her in her arms. She waited by the lady until the ambulance came and visited her in the hospital.
Her house was a warm place to be. Everyone was welcome there. She ‘adopted’ many of my friends, neighbours’ children ……anyone who needed a spot of love. All family gatherings were at Gran’s house. She loved cooking for people and got immense joy from seeing others enjoying themselves. It was a magic power she had – giving her time to anyone who could do with a listening ear, a kind word or a huge hug.
Throughout my life, I have always tried to be kind to others.
I feel immense joy and happiness from seeing other people being happy. I love having visitors and often cook for others. If I know someone is having a hard time, I will try hard to listen, help where I can and endeavour to bring a spot of happiness into their world.
My children know my mantra for both of them is that they must be kind and tolerant to other people. In his darker teenage years, my eldest son told me my most annoying trait was being too kind and always seeing the best in people.
My youngest son now says the same thing!
I have been a teacher for 24 years. Throughout this time, I have prided myself that children in my classes have always said I am fair, understanding and kind. I actively teach the children in my care the importance of being kind to others and themselves. I am now a school leader, so my message of kindness is spreading further afield.
As I have become older, I have realised the importance of recognising what makes you feel happy and appreciate our world. My family and friends are essential to my happiness, and daily walks in the countryside with my gorgeous dog. Music is also a hugely important part of my life.
I will always try to spread positivity and happiness in all areas of my life and will always try to see the best in others.
‘Leave footprints of love and kindness on every step of your journey.’ Winnie the Pooh
Conclusion: A story on kindness
This blog concludes that the author’s wonderful Grannie profoundly impacted her life through her selfless acts of kindness and love. Inspired by her, Lorna continues to spread positivity, happiness, and kindness to others in various aspects of her life. The message is to leave footprints of love and kindness on every step of the journey, much like the wisdom shared by Winnie the Pooh.
Lorna Watson
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