What I Want To Be Said Of Me

Recently, someone said to me, "Sheila, It is a comfort to have you in the building."

Upon hearing those words pour loving from my friend's heart, I thanked her for the genuine compliment...and let it sink deep inside my own heart.

Later, when alone, I began to ponder those words again, and had this response: "Those beautiful words sum up what I want said of me, when my journey on this earth is over!"

My husband--"It was a comfort to have you right by my side, Sheila."

My children--"It was a comfort to know that you loved us and always believed in us, Mom."

My family and friends--"It was a comfort to know you cared, and showed us intentionally that we mattered to you, Sheila"

My birth clients--"It was a comfort to know that you would stay beside me, and believe that I could successfully birth my baby."

Total Strangers--"It was comforting to see your warm smile."

Dictionary.com says that "Comfort" means, "to soothe, console, or reassure; bring cheer to"
If I want to be remembered as one who soothes, consoles, cheers...what do I need to do to make sure that I am remembered as a "Comfort".
The world around me is full of chaos, stress, fatigue, anger, fear, pain...the list could go on for miles. What can I do to bring comfort to those who come into my world every day?

I am aware that not all our problems and issues can be solved with just a smile or hug, but it might be a good start! There is a quote that a smile or kind word may not change the world, but it might change the world for that one person. I've often been the recipient of a kind gesture, or a friendly smile or helpful word, and it means something!!

When I think about how easily it is to get consumed with our own coming and going; our busy, busy lives, I feel compelled to stop the madness, and just be a comfort to anyone that gets within arms reach of me. I feel convicted, because I know that I am guilty of not being very comforting to my own family often enough, and that needs to be different.

As a Wife, Mother and Doula, I know the power of touch. It may be a firm hand of support around the back of someone who feels weak. It may be grasping their hand to assure them that we are in this together. It may be a hug, to let them know that I regard them as important, and I love them.

The power of the spoken word, is just as great. Proverbs 15:1 says, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."

I have my work cut out for me, but I'm up to the challenge! As I type this, one of my own is feeling "put out" with me...so I need to practice what I preach and go do a little comforting.

Goodnight...and until we meet again, take care of each other.
Sheila