Do SOMETHING

I was almost home from my daily walk, and looked over to see my neighbor on the ground, bleeding.

What on earth?

Another neighbor was already there, and he turned and asked me to call 911.

I did, and we waited for a few minutes until the paramedics arrived. Once they were there and she was in good hands, I walked the remaining few steps to my house.

But I couldn’t stop thinking about her.

Was she ok? Did she break any bones? How could I help? Should I bring some dinner over? Flowers? A card? Should I stay away?

I didn’t know what to do.

I often don’t know what to do in situations like this—things where someone got hurt, or something tragic happens.

So I lived my life as usual, and then I went to bed.

I did nothing.

Well, I woke up the next morning, and my neighbor was the first thing on my mind. I had other obligations in the morning, but as soon as I was free I went to the store. I’d get her flowers—

I couldn’t find anything that looked right. I wanted an arrangement with a vase, so I wasn’t dropping off work for her to do. I walked around the floral department three times.

Just make a decision, Holly!!

Usually, this is where I get overwhelmed and just go home. UGH! I was stuck in my own head. Are flowers a nice gesture? Do they convey compassion and concern from a neighbor? Is it weird? Too much?

I saw a house plant.

It looked cool.

I still didn’t know what the right thing was, but I decided to do something.

I bought the plant.

Even when I got home, I stared at my decision for a while.

This is weird.

I’m weird.

But my neighbor! I couldn’t stop thinking about her. I wrote a note, tucked it in the pot, and walked it over to her house.

I knocked on the door and felt as nervous as could be. Her husband answered the door and I presented my offering. He was gracious and told me she’d love it. I hope so.

I want to be a person who does something.

When my dad died, a friend brought me a plant—a fake one—and I LOVE that thing. Every time I see it, I remember my dad, and my friend who thought about me during a really hard time in my life. ❤️

Do something.

I think that’s going to be my motto this year. Up to this point, a lot of my friends and family have almost received thoughtful gifts, hand-written cards, yummy treats from my kitchen, and more. 🤦🏻‍♀️

Almost.

Honestly, that stings. A LOT.

I’m going to stop thinking about all the things I could/should do, and just do it.

Want to join me? It could be your motto, too.

Do something.