Seedplanter’s Porch

How transparent are you? Do people know the real you, or only the person you allow them to see?

I’ve posted a new “Backstories” column over at SquidLog this morning titled The Beauty of Transparency. It’s a topic that will grow more timely, I think, as the economy continues to birth personal hardships.

We can reach out to the needy, but unless we make ourselves transparent–allow our real selves to touch others–where’s the warmth? The authenticity?

Stop by SquidLog and have a look around. Its a new site hatched by Squidster and Chef Keem, and I’m happy to be a part of it.

New to Squidoo? Make your own lens today!

Have you joined Tagfoot yet? Why not?

Long before “random acts of kindness” became a talk show topic, a popular book, and a website, it was just an acceptable way to live. People grew up knowing that it was better to reach out than to become so wrapped up in ourselves, we don’t notice anyone else’s plight.

But you know what? I’ve learned something along the way. The gift of kindness doesn’t always come naturally. Sometimes it’s “caught” by observing someone whose quiet, gentle spirit makes a lasting impression–a parent, teacher, or special friend. Sometimes it’s learned through the school of hard knocks, when somebody reaches out to you.

Think back.

What’s the kindest thing anyone has ever done for you? Now flip the thought around. What’s the biggest blessing you’ve ever received from extending kindness to someone else? There’s a satisfaction that comes in helping someone who doesn’t see a way around their problem…or in surprising somebody just because.

Visit my new lens, and please leave a comment in the Plexo. I’d like to hear a kindness-related story from as many people as possible. Stories like that inspire and challenge us to slow down the pace of life. When we aren’t in such a rush, we’re more apt to notice people who could use a helping hand or an understanding heart.

New to Squidoo? Make your own lens today!

*Star image via Wikipedia