It can be easy to get caught up in our own problems and forget about the rest of the world.  If we aren’t careful, focusing on our pain and hardships can lead to a spiral into darkness if we shut out the rest of the world. Often people in that dark place will ask Doc and I how to be truly happy in life. There are many answers to that question but the number one thing that Doc and I will tell them is a quote by  Robert Ingersoll, “We rise by lifting others.”

The work that Doc and I do, and the times that we spend visiting cancer patients or families grieving the loss of a loved ones, leaves us feeling renewed and thankful. We always get back more than we give. It’s about being part of something bigger than yourself.

The great part of giving is that it doesn’t have to be some grand gesture. Sometimes the small things make the biggest differences in other people’s lives. Finding something that truly matters to you and then helping a person, group or cause without expectation that you will get anything in return except a good feeling can change the way you view yourself and the world. I highly recommend it. For example, just the other day, Doc and I came across a woman at the cancer center that was having a down day. When she saw me, her face lit up, so I approached, leaned in to her and gave her some puppy kisses lightly on the cheek. She started laughing, her husband took some pictures and I stayed next to her as she gently stroked my fur. In just those few minutes, it took her mind off of her discomfort.

So I challenge all the wonderful readers of my blog to take the time every day for one week, to do one small thing for someone else that you would not normally do. Be creative and have some fun with it. At the end of the week, take stock and see if life looks a little brighter. You can even message me and let me know what you did and how it went. Good luck!