Today's testimonial was sent to me a few months ago from Caitlin P. of England. I'm all for performing random acts of kindness for strangers, but sometimes a close friend is the one who needs it the most.
About 6 months ago my husband and I decided to split up after 8 years as a couple. I live in England, a long way away from my friends and family in the US. We set a date when he would move out and on that day I received a large box from my best friend in the states containing 8 wrapped packages. There was also a note that said I wasn't to open them all at once but that I should open one at a time at times I was feeling particularly low.Slowly over about two weeks I opened them at particularly bad moments as I dealt with the reality of being on my own and feeling alone. Some were big presents, like DVDs of cheesy films from my teen years. Others were small, like a pack of taco seasoning (something I miss from the states) and a box of oreos. But every time I opened one of them it put a smile on my face since each one was perfectly chosen and told me that my friend was thinking about me.
I've filed away this idea for the next time someone I love is going through a hard time -- it really really helped me!
It's so wonderful that Caitlin has a kind friend to provide support through tough times, even when they don't live in the same country. Is there someone in your life that could use a non-random act of kindness?
Do you have a NICE:Testimonial that you'd like to share? If so, click here to send me an email!
7 comments:
What a great idea! I'm happy that I'm not going through anything traumatic, but the thought that someone might be nice enough to give me gifts if I were going through bad times, it would be a wonderful reminder that things are never as bad as they seem.
I should remember this, too, for when someone in my life is down in the dumps. I'm way too self-centered most days.
That is a brilliant idea. When one of my friends is going through a hard time I will do this. :)
Love this idea! Definitely something that I am going to steal ;o) I hope that Caitlin is doing better.
I love this idea! I've just written a post on my blog in response (but then I noticed the Create a Link bit here, and think maybe I did it wrong. But I did link to you!), as I'm looking for a way to help out a friend at the moment. This is a brilliant idea & it's great to hear it from the point of view of the person receiving, to know what a difference it makes. Thanks for sharing! :)
I love this story! What a lovely friend :)
This is such a great idea. I just recieved an email from my sister who has split up w/ her "boyfriend" of 8 years telling me how lonely she is and how she is crying herself to sleep lately. I think I will borrow this idea and go shopping this weekend!
Also? I just discovered operation nice and I LOVE the idea!!!
Just found your site..and can I tell you..You totally ROCK!!! I can't express enough how awesome I think this is.. i guess being in the northeast (hopefully a move is coming soon!) we up here are a lot more fast paced.. and yes, i will say it.. even ruder. It is NICE to see this website... makes you take a step back.. and just think.
Thank you!
Smiles~
Cat
Post a Comment