The Power of Kindness and Inclusion -A Nora Moment

Meaningful Mondays - Arrows Out

In this week's edition of Meaningful Monday, Lee Brower talks about the powerful effect of kind words and actions, and the joy of inclusion. He recounts the inspiring story of a young boy named Jim Abbott who, despite having only one arm, was determined to play baseball as well as anyone with two. Abbott's influencer was his third-grade teacher who was instrumental in boosting his confidence and teaching him the practicalities of life, such as tying a shoe with one hand.

Brower shares his personal experience visiting a trampoline park with his daughter Natalie and her two daughters, one of whom, Sloan, has Spina bifida. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the park, Brower observed a simple yet profoundly heart-warming moment of kindness - an interaction between Sloan and a four-year-old named Nora.

Despite the seeming indifference of others, the perceptive Nora offers kindness and companionship to Sloan, proving that small acts of kindness indeed create waves of goodwill. Brower marvels at the wisdom and compassion of a child that made the handicapped Sloan feel included and loved.

Brower concludes with an empowering question: "Who can we see that normally is invisible to us that we may be able to extend a hand to, a smile to, but make a difference in their lives?" He encourages us to acknowledge the struggles of others and to perform acts of kindness without expecting anything in return. According to him, these "Nora moments" can have far-reaching effects, potentially impacting generations.

Acknowledging and learning from such acts of kindness, Brower encourages us to live more compassionately and inclusively, suggesting that we too can become catalysts for change and goodwill. He signs off, bidding us to have a meaningful week, and promising more inspiration in the next episode.