Whenever I’m doubting myself, something or someone tends to come along to bolster my crumbling confidence. Take this morning for example. A review landed on my Twitter feed at just the right time, cheering me up no end. Words like these are oxygen to a writer, they erase the doubting voice that is a frequent visitor to my cranial cavity. I will always be grateful to those who take the time to do so. They keep me going.
We all need such support in our lives, whatever our passions or pursuits. Otherwise, it can be a very long and lonely journey. A kind word here, a reassuring nod there doesn’t cost anything. It only takes a second but can last a lifetime to those on the receiving end. I’ve been at rock bottom and it’s only been the support of others that have given me the strength to haul myself up by the bootlaces and start again.
None of us are invincible which is why the writing and blogging communities are such a wonderful way of seeking encouragement and direction when needed. You need never feel alone whatever the world throws at you. I’m very fortunate to have the backing of a loving family but for those of you who might not know that there are people out there willing and able to help. You need never be alone. All you have to do is reach out and ask.
So I’ll write today, with a lighter heart and a greater resolve. Because one person took the time to reach out and breathe kindness into my life. It took about five minutes but I’ll always have their words when I’m struggling with the demons who tell me I’m a fraud and a fake and will never amount to anything. And today I’m paying it back by seeking to breathe kindness into the lives of others. I’d encourage you to do the same. What have we got to lose?
Black Thoughts 
Your blog gives me energy, lifts my spirits most days. Thank you for this message. It made a difference today💜
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And your kind words help me as well. Thank you 😊
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Kind words certainly do help, especially on the days we feel dead inside regarding our creative output.
On a slightly similar note, this post may also resonate with those experiencing lows on the creative path. Hope it helps in some way:
https://dreamlife.wordpress.com/2019/10/21/courage-creativity/
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Thank you very much for sharing the link with us all 🙂
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This is so true. I believe that everyone has a time when they truly need the support and kindness shown to them to keep them going. I know that I definitely do. I’m so glad that you were inspired by kindness. Thank you for sharing that with me. It means a lot.
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You’re very welcome, Mary 🙂
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So, you’re saying I ought to try a different approach in my comments?
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We both know that’s not going to happen.
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I’ve really been trying. You know, sometimes.
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That’s made me giggle! X
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AMEN, brother. Even those who try to appear as if they don’t need it actually DO needs kindness breathed into their lives. Thanks for that great nudge.
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You’re very welcome 🤣
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I always look forward to reading your perspectives and just hearing about your current state of life. Your words inspire my thoughts and I am so glad to share this world with you.
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Thank you very much, Erika. That’s very kind of you to say.
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Nothing to lose and so much to gain. Thank you for sharing your blessing.
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You’re very welcome 🙂
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Amen, act of kindness we all should do
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Thank you 😊
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I totally agree with you. Such true words! Being kind doesn’t cost anything. And it is what keeps people us going. 🙂
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Thank you very much 🙂
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You are welome. Anytime. 🙂
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So true. It takes so little effort to show kindness, and we all need it everyday.
Reminds me of this song: “Sow Mercy” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJG9saXsG9w
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Thank you for sharing 🙂
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love this!!! you are incredible 🙂
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So important we be kind to others, even a simple text message can make someones elses day!
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Most definitely 😊
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Awww that’s lovely, really lovely. ❤️
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Thank you. Are you still in NYC?
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Yes, still here on the 49th floor! It’s the most beautiful day today … if I knew how to send you a picture I would … the sun is just going down over the Hudson whilst the little ferries still trundle back and forth across the river from New Jersey to the city. They stopped for a long time so it’s lovely to see them back. Of course the cruise ships no longer come and dock down below us which was something we always enjoyed watching, but apart from the lack of tourists, Manhattan in the last few weeks seems a little more normal. I need to catch up on your blogs, I’m so behind. I hope you’re still running and if your next book is out, there’s no question you’re busy! All well I hope?
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In response to your wonderful post, I am sharing my haiku on Kindness.
Random or focussed
Kindness meant to circulate
Reach out, pass it on.
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Thank you 😊
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Doing homeless ministry, I’ve found that kindness is so very appreciated by those we serve. Sometimes just sharing simple kindness will lead a person to tell you significant life stories in 15 seconds. People in survival mode are often desperate for kindness, and sometimes that’s you and me.
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You are are doing great work, Eric. Thank you 😊
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Kindness has become like a scarce commodity these days. Seldom people show kindness to others which doesn’t cost a dime. Thanks for sharing.
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I agree, Chris. Thank you 😊
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Jim’s review May be public. (He gave it 5 ⭐️!)
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I’ve read it. Tell him thank you very much. It’s great support 🙂
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I will. Hope your test comes back negative.
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Thank you. It did.
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Wonderful
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Thank you Stephen. It is a message that bears repeating as often as we can:
Choose kind.
As you say, it costs us little, and can give the person receiving it so much more than we know.
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That’s very true. Thank you 😊
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I agree with you being kind can make a world of difference.
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Most definitely.
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