Focusing on Others
Valentine's Day of 2016 was extremely difficult for me. A few days before I had found out that my long-term boyfriend was sleeping with someone else and the relationship ended. I was feeling very sorry for myself on Valentine's Day. As I walked into the grocery store, there was a homeless man sitting in the parking lot holding a sign. His sign wasn't asking for help. Instead, he had written a warning to kids to stay in school so they didn't end up like him. While I was in the store shopping, I kept thinking that no matter how bad my problems seemed, there are people in the world who have more serious issues. I decided to help him in a small way. In addition to my items, I purchased a rotisserie chicken and a bottle of water. I gave him the food as I was walking to my car and he was very appreciative. That small interaction helped to lift me out of my depression for the rest of the evening. I will be looking for more ways to help others because I know that it is also helping me.