Today was the birthday for one of the clients here in treatment. The other clients surprised him with cake, ice cream, a card and gift. He said, “this changed the whole feeling for my day.” He looked as though he was holding back a river of emotions. The gestures of kindness that made this birthday party happen were almost too overwhelming for him. He couldn't remember the last time he was at a party sober. He seemed very grateful for this gesture honoring the day of his birth. This could be his first birthday party on a long road to recovery. All the staff and clients had hopes it would be.

These touching moments of kindness and appreciation come from people genuinely caring for each other. Our staff genuinely cares for the people they offer their help to, even those who struggle against help. The clients going through treatment genuinely care for each other because they can so much identify with each other's trials and hopes. Caring is a wonderful gift to give to another.

Who do you care about in your life? Have you shown or told them lately? What do you appreciate about them? Have you been encouraging or supportive of them recently? Where else in your life can you spread kindness and appreciation? Are there those that give to you in ways that you really value? Who around you needs a big dose of either kindness or appreciation today? Can you wrap up a big package if it and make the delivery before the day ends?

If you are having a difficult day or struggle with feeling down, the best medicine for that is to give to others, to have an open heart for those in need and to be grateful for those who shown care for you in difficult moments. One of my favorite speakers was a person named Leo Buscaglia, he use to say that if you are feeling down bake some chocolate chip cookies and take them over to the neighbors to share.

If you look around you will see many opportunities to give to others. Giving can take so little effort and have such big results.

"I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver."
Maya Angelou