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When I ask you, “How Full Is Your Life?” it’s to get you thinking about not only today, but all your tomorrows. What are some ways to fill your life? It can be as simple as a smile, saying hello to a stranger or trying something new. Or it can be a big idea that fills you with excitement.
Widows recognize how simple words and actions can be uplifting, and the best part is that you can start right now. Here is a strange fact, every time you help to fill someone else’s life, you set something in motion. Think about this, helping others is helping yourself. Asking, "How Full Is Your Life", opens you up to all the options you have.
- Write an encouraging note and mail it to a friend.
- Ask someone who is good at something to help you learn it.
- Invite someone who is lonely to join you for coffee.
- Help someone clean up a mess in their home or vehicle.
- Compliment and smile at someone.
Describe a time you filled someone’s wish. How did it make you feel? How did that person react?
Now the opposite can happen where others are negative and rob you of your desire to live fully. When that happens, how did it make you feel? How do you think that person felt?
I know that widows often lose friends when they are no longer part of a couple. To have a full life we need to get out of our homes and be a “joiner”.
- While out, scan the area and look for someone else that is alone. Walk up and simply say hi.
- Introduce the new person to your group of friends.
- Invite her to hang out with you or to do another activity.
- Don’t be shy, ask about her interests. Don’t interrupt or change the subject. Support her in her activities and interests. Recognize her achievements and listen by asking questions.
- Remember “to have a friend you must first be a friend”.
To have a full life with “true friends” you need to be able to see the effect “negative friendships” have on you. “True friends” are what makes a life full and joyful.
- They share common interests with you, and are willing to learn new things with you.
- They give you a boost, stand up for you and really listen when you talk.
- They help you think through a decision, navigating the pros and cons.
- They encourage you to be your best, to live a full life.
Don’t get caught up in having a “best friend”. One person can’t possibly be everything to you, and you can’t always be everything to them. I understand that it’s tempting to have that one friend that you can always depend on, almost like having a spouse again, but to grow we need to hang out with others.
Finally, working to better your community helps boost your well-being. Volunteering can give you a sense of purpose, helps you to build relationships and provides you with a fresh outlook on life.
Mary Francis, The Sisterhood of Widows
#thesisterhoodofwidows, #widow, #grief, #griefsupport, #widowsupport, #howtogrieve. #widowshelpingwidows
