Articles

In my last blog article, I spoke about the value of being mindful in relation to developing intimacy in relationships.  One of my favorite definitions of mindfulness is from Jon Kabat-Zinn who states:  Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way; on purpose, in the moment and non-judgmentally.  I then like to include the thoughts of Michael Stone ’when he offers the following:   Being mindful is more than just paying attention to what is happening in the present moment.  Mindfulness is the practice of generosity.  It is the practice of intimacy.  It is opening up to how our life is actually happening.  It happens not only with ourselves, but also at a social level.  We have to work out in the world.  We need to serve others.  Transcendence isn’t just vertical – within ourselves – but also horizontal – extending to others. 

These are powerful words and powerful ideas. 

When I graduated with my Bachelor of Social Work, I purchased a signet ring and I had the crest of the Faculty of Social Work inscribed on my ring.  It said the following:  As One Who Serves.  I liked that saying then and I like that saying now. 

Being of service to others can be offered in so many ways.  Big ways and smaller ways.  They are all important.  We can serve others by offering the gift of listening.  We can serve others through social action.  We can serve others through donations.  We can serve others through small deeds.  We can serve others through kind words.  We can serve others through sharing the gift of laughter.  We can serve others through sitting in silence with someone who is grieving.  We can serve others through spending time with them.  So many ways.

Serving others does involve taking action. I encourage you to take action today by setting an intention to serve others in a way that brings you joy.

Stay open.  Be curious.

Barbara