Kindness & Unity

When my parents met at the age of 17 my dad soon after had to join the army. They were so connected that they wrote to each other every single day for a year. My dad would send my mum dried flowers which she collected in a notebook (pictured). They both taught me that there’s always room for love; whether it’s for your family, friends, neighbours or a stranger. I believe that during testing times it’s important to hold dear these fundamental gifts of love and kindness.

This memorably unusual time we’re going through has brought me into contemplation and moved me to reconnect with the truly important things in my life. I wanted to hold off posting my opinion and personal experience about COVID-19 because in the grand scheme of things I wondered how relevant it is. Nonetheless I decided to put my thoughts down and share them with you because a sense of community is a welcomed thing for most of us right now.

From the larger issues to the everyday changes I feel this will undoubtedly alter me in the long run. I hope I never again find myself saying “I can’t be bothered to go” because now I see what it’s like not to have a say in the matter. This has made me appreciate even more my best friends laugh, a hug from my big brother, a kind gesture and all the other beautiful things in life that come for free and from the heart.

I’m touched by the kindest I see in my local community and I’m awake to the fact that we are all ultimately dependant on each other. I’ve realised that there’s always opportunity for the individual to make a positive impact and no matter how small it may be it’s still relevant. By reaching out to the most vulnerable in my local area I see how warmly people welcome being remembered and asked if they’re ok.

Once this has all passed and our lives slowly shift back into normality, I hope that what I have learnt during this time will be imprinted in my new sense of being. This has exposed that the issues which have divided us pale in comparison to the unity we can create when faced with a call to action. It is a truly humbling thing to witness unfold.

Much love to you all and those dearest to you,

Nina x