Every year around Vivienne’s birthday, I have used Facebook to ask friends, family and community to perform acts of kindness in honor of her memory. We feel that this may make Vivienne’s birthday a little more bearable, with the knowledge that much good is being done in her name, and that her spirit continues to touch others as much as it has touched our own lives.
This year, I’m trying something new! I have started this website as a vehicle to encourage and inspire people to do acts of kindness for Vivienne – around her birthday especially, but also any time of year. It has always felt right that she is remembered by good acts, but it’s more than that. It’s about love.
I would ask that you once again consider doing acts of kindness (Love Works) in Vivienne’s name this year. The options to do so are endless – big or small. I guarantee that there is someone on your social media who has been going through a rough time lately, and maybe you know about it, but maybe you don’t. There is someone who needs to hear that they are loved. It is not always possible to know the full impact of acts of love, but I know it always makes a difference in some way. A kind smile to a stranger may change someone’s day. You can give money, or gifts, or time, or praise, or support, or food, or a helping hand, or a listening ear – but above all, give love.
Love Works can be big or small, and they don’t have to cost anything at all (though they can, if that is your choice). Please consider what ways you might be able to give love to one another. We can’t know what demons other people are facing – the rude store clerk might have just lost a family member and is having a bad day, the person who speeds past you inconsiderately might be rushing to a family emergency. If anything, giving others the benefit of the doubt instead of thinking the worst could not only be kind to them, but also affect your mindset in a positive way.
Other Love Works might be to spend extra time chatting to the old lady at the supermarket who strikes up a conversation with you, or helping a mum who is juggling kids and groceries with returning her shopping cart to the store, call that friend who has been going through a rough time and let them know you care, or simply tell your loved ones how much they mean to you. Pay the toll for the person behind you, or pay for the next person’s coffee at the drive through. There are so many ways to make a positive impact on the world, please consider doing one or more in Vivienne’s name.
We would love to hear about your acts of kindness, if you would like to share, but do not feel it is necessary. If you would like to submit a story, or photo that we can publish here on the blog to help inspire others to do Love Works, please send us an email.
Love Works Always,
The Pelletreau Family
