When I was a boy, and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping" - Fred Rogers.
There has never been a better time to say Thank you to the heroes, and the helpers. Research shows us that savouring is a forgotten art. When we savour the moments that give us glimpses of joy, intentionally thinking about why those things mean so much to us, we can then channel that into gratitude.
When we feel and express gratitude, our ability to handle stress is improved. And let’s face it, stress can be a little intense these days.
During this worldwide pandemic, I am wanting to focus on expressing gratitude more. Supporting the frontline workers that are fighting the war of COVID-19 on our behalf is our duty. While we are staying home and social distancing, which can be challenging, I won't lie; these workers are running right into the fire, working tirelessly and selflessly at this challenging time. They need and deserve our thanks. Thinking about the selfless courage and precious sacrifice that our front line workers are doing to serve our communities has me in awe. The commitment and care they continue to offer day in and out during these uncertain times have me wondering how will we ever thank these heroes sufficiently?
Spreading the love for those that deserve it has me already feeling better about the circumstances around me. Even though my businesses are significantly affected right now, I am trying to curate gratitude to help me not only stay sane but also deal with the stress of all of this. I want to serve in some way and to thank others for the role they are playing right now. After all, they are the reason we are safe in our homes and able to cope with this pandemic.
Saying thank you to our front line workers is happening in beautiful and creative ways and showcased every day through the news media, social media and collective efforts. The outpouring of support to our health care workers reflected in outward applause with pots and pans, music and cheering, moves me. I know many neighbourhoods continue to do this even now.
I know these workers are still coming home exhausted and fearful like the rest of us and may need an additional dose of our love and demonstrated appreciation. Trying to come up with an individualized and creative tribute to frontline heroes is a great way to express our gratitude, and savour the gifts of our safety due to their hard work.
With this in mind, The Floral Studio Co. has curated beautiful boxes to treat your neighbour or loved one that is providing the health or essential services we need to get through this. If you know someone in your life that is putting that mask on every day to head to their health care position, now is the time to thank them personally. Surprise someone who is heading to work to provide you with an essential service. They are bravely keeping us all safe, and human connection and affirmation will fuel their energy and determination, which I am sure are challenged during this challenging time, as it is with all of us.
Recognizing our social and civic obligations to stay home will continue to be challenging at times. It is hard to maintain these guidelines with the forthcoming days of honouring parents with Mother's Day and Father's Day just around the corner. The government mandates us to stay home, and social distancing makes me just want to put every holiday on hold until we can do it well.
Well, it may not be the same this year but I am hearing you. I get it.
I want to help you express the gratitude, and others to feel the love. Let's face it when we take the time to look for the helpers, and express our thanks, the benefits are reciprocal. And we are reminded of hope.
That is the revitalization we gain by thanking the heroes. Gratitude is one of the most effective ways to help with anxiety and stress.
It sounds like a win-win to me.
If you want to create a beautiful gift to thank someone, we are here to help and offer free delivery, so reach out.
