This inaugural Blog It Forward trip is almost over and it’s been great. It’s kind of like being at a party and having a memorable and fun conversation with every person you meet. Our host, the lovely Victoria, from sfgirlbybay.com, has done wonderful work bringing us all together.
Like many of the blog authors, I’m inspired by the people and things in my daily life.
I couldn’t be who I am and do what I do without those “inspirations.” But I wanted to focus on one thing in particular that inspires me. Being near the end of this mash-up, I’ve had much time to read many of the blog it forward posts and to write this post in my head. I kept coming back to one concept… warmth.
I usually shy away from trends (sometimes to my detriment), but I was inspired to choose one word for this Year of the Tiger. Warmth can be attributed to so many things in my life this year, but how it inspires me for this post, is through the people I’ve met since beginning this journey of a full-time indie business.
Many of you can relate to sitting alone in front of your laptop creating/building what will sustain your soul and, hopefully, your living. It can be a lonely existence if not for the warmth from a stranger in another part of this world.Reaching out to the people that comment on your blog or engage you in the various social media that exists, exhibits a warmth that’s “got legs.” I believe it travels from one person to the next, like a chain letter you actually want to receive and send.
I have made actual friends, whom I may never meet, and that is truly amazing. Just from spreading a little warmth around the interwebs…
I believe the people that take the time to show care and respect for others, no matter the situation, aesthetic or style of each, enjoy the greatest success. They actually enjoy their successes because they appreciate the people who have helped them achieve it.
And a good dose of humor and humility doesn’t hurt either…
Near the end of last year, I was having a particularly stressful and unhappy day, when I received a message from Carina of Crow and Canary. She asked for my address so that she could send me a holiday greeting. We’ve never met. We just know each other as Paperistas (her terrific phrase.) Carina’s simple act of warmth brought me out of my funk and into better place that day. It inspired me. Can you think of an experience that has happened to you that’s similar? I’ll bet it’s a good memory. Moments like these sustain us in an unexpected way. And they can be the beginning of a great friendship.
Some days, warmth is difficult to achieve. If I’m feeling judgmental, I try to think this thought, “Have you done everything ‘right’ this week?” The answer is always no and it allows me to throw aside pettiness and judgment to spread some warmth. Who doesn’t need just a little bit of that everyday?
If you haven’t stopped by Rikshaw Design’s blog from yesterday, you should visit her inspirations and lovely images. And tomorrow, be sure to check out the beautiful style of Ruby Press.
Thanks so much for visiting!
