I took a call on the Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton (SACE) Crisis & Information line the other day that I am not 100% satisfied with. I don't feel like I offered my best help to the caller. They got one call to hear a friendly voice, get support and recognition, and I know I could have done better. I should have done better.
Last week I sent a care package to a friend who was really struggling. Her father-in-law passed away, and it sounds like the past couple of months have been rough in general. I wanted to do something to show her that I am thinking of her, that I love her, and that I will always be there for her in whatever way she needs. It wasn't much; small bags of chips, a couple of chocolate bars, a journal, and a sheet mask because, man, those things are amazing!
It wasn't much, but it was a symbol, a show of love.
And it got me thinking about the phone call. I may not feel like I gave the caller my best, but they were brave enough to reach out for help, and they found a friendly supportive voice. I listened, and I showed them empathy. I can't guess if that was enough for the caller, but I know from experience that those simple acts can - and do - make a huge difference to people.
All this to say, that even the smallest acts have an amazing impact on someone who is struggling, especially to someone who can't or doesn't know how to ask for help.
They also have an amazing impact on the person doing the support. Every call I answer is hard and oftentimes heartbreaking, but the tears I cry are of joy and celebration of the strength and hopefulness of humanity.
And I always remember that these big moments are no more special or important than the simple "hey, how are you?" texts I send to a friend in need.
The care package I sent was filled with snacks, which is no coincidence as I have recently figured out that one of my love languages is FOOD. Because of this, I started a list of my friends favourite snacks. I want to know yours too! Please comment below or send me an email with your favourite snack. (No food shaming talk in your post, thanks!)
What big or small thing have you done for your people lately? What is your love language? What is your favourite snack that can be easily mailed?
xo
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