Showing up for others in hard times and good times
Hi friends,
This week on the Magnify podcast, we loved hearing the advice from our team member, Steph, who shared that it’s good to consider the concentric circles of friendship. When tragedy strikes, or when offering help in general, we can look at what circle we’re in for someone as we’re trying to figure out how to be helpful. This can prompt ideas so we act instead of feeling helpless and wondering what in the world we can possibly do.
Lisa Valentine Clark reminded us to show up for others, even if we feel weird about it. Ultimately, what matters is following through on the good thoughts to step up and help, give love, and show we care.
This got us thinking about the ways people have shown up for us recently. Here are a few examples:
One team member opened the door to find a loaf of bread and jar of jam on the porch, left there by her ministering sister with a “thinking about you” note. Did this ministering sister know that the specific kind of bread she chose was the exact kind our team member would have chosen for herself? No. Maybe this ministering sister questioned the choice while at the bread store, maybe she didn’t. But she showed up with the bread, and it made someone’s day brighter.
After a church committee meeting, one of our team members received a text with an apology, not that one was needed. This woman knew that a topic conversation at the end of the meeting could have made this team member feel unseen, and she wanted to make sure to recognize that feeling, just in case.
One of our team members doesn’t have family nearby. Her sisters who live near each other in another state sent her a surprise box of books so she could be included in the book exchange from far away.
When she had to cancel a gathering, another team member was grateful to friends who were understanding and didn’t leave her feeling guilty or bad, but instead offered support and love.
At a ward sports activity, one of our team members who is incredibly musical but not very athletic, showed up to play even though she was hesitant about attending. She was welcomed and encouraged by everyone and left feeling happy she decided to go.
Listen to this week’s episode to hear more about showing up for each other in big and small ways. It really doesn’t matter how; we can show up and love as our Savior would.
What kindness have you received lately? Or what kindness have you offered? We know you’re doing lots of good things for others every day. Let us know @magnifythegood over on Instagram.
Warmly,
Your friends at Magnify