The Kindness of Helping Others to Stretch

"If you put yourself in a position where you have to stretch your comfort zone, then you are forced to expand your consciousness."
― Les Brown

In December, I accompanied one of my children's classes on a holiday nursing home visit.  Not having ever visited a nursing home, I wasn't quite sure what to do with myself.  Fortunately, there was someone to guide me and the students through.  One of the teachers, who looks more like a student, had this amazing way about her.  She went from nursing home resident to resident, greeting them with a big smile and a gentle touch.  This teacher did not seem to see the things that get in the way for the rest of us when dealing with people who are different than we are.  She seemed to only see people with whom to share her friendly manner and warmth.  Although I am a couple of decades older than this young teacher, her example was inspirational and powerful.

A couple of weeks ago, when we took the children to another nursing home for a short concert, I drew on the young teacher's example.  Although I was not a natural at reaching out to residents the way she was, I did make several strides forward.  I enjoyed opening my heart.  And I have that wonderfully warm young teacher to thank for helping me to stretch.