Certain life events interrupt our daily routines, either in the short term or long term. People who have had babies, had surgeries or debilitating illnesses, or lost loved ones often need a little extra care. Ever wonder what you can do? A card, an email, or even a text these days can be greatly appreciated, but practical assistance is always appropriate and welcome. If you want to go that extra mile, making some food is very generous. Or you could offer to walk a dog or feed a cat. Taking children on a outing or a playdate is always a relief for overwhelmed parents.
Having just bad a baby, I can attest to the loveliness of these gestures. We particularly loved getting soup. It definitely made that first week easier, not having to worry about food. We received several soups and one-dish meals, and it was such a moving, nurturing act from our friends!
An online calendar called meal Train, http://www.mealtrain.com, is a great group option for those who want to organize meals for friends in need. Free for the basic set up, this real-time meal calendar shows what the recipients like and their food needs, so that you can customize dates and time. You can invite people via email and Facebook, and it organizes the list as well as sending out reminder emails.
Next time you are tempted to help a friend in need, jump right in! Sometimes people are too frazzled to even know what they need, but everyone needs to eat. Chop up a fruit salad, bring a loaf of banana bread, put together a hearty pot of soup. The gift of good is literally the gift of sustenance. Your kindness, love, and support can go a long way!
Contributor:
Acupuncturist, herbalist, Maya abdominal practitioner, and reflexologist Christina Morris is the founder of Element Natural Healing Arts. Writing about health and wellness gives her an outlet to express her care and concern for her beloved community. She believes everyone can achieve better health and happiness–emotionally, physically, mentally, and spiritually.