Overcoming Grief Through Helping Others

I love the idea of releasing depression, overcoming grief by reaching out to others. Here are 10 tips that I read on Eileen Browns blog

1. Offer a few hours of free babysitting services to a stressed-out single parent in your neighborhood.

2. When you buy food from a vending machine, slip in an extra dollar. The next person to use the machine will be grateful for the free snack.

3. Mow the lawn or cook a meal for an elderly neighbor.

4. Next time you go out to eat, leave a thank-you note along with your server’s tip.

5. When you stop at a toll booth, foot the bill for the car behind you.

6. Pay someone a compliment at least once every day.

7. Donate new children’s books to a local school or library.

8. Stop in at a local nursing home and spend a few minutes chatting with the residents. Even better, bring flowers to brighten up their rooms.

9. Buy a grocery bag full of nutritious canned goods, and donate it to your local food bank.

10. Track down your favorite teachers and send them letters telling them what an inspiration they’ve been to you over the years.

and number 11… give sweets to security guards.  They really don’t expect it and are usually delighted…

What I love about helping others, is that it relieves your pain and makes someone else smile. A smile is one of the best gifts to an aching heart, a smile can help your heart feel the warmth of unconditional love and the joy of life again.