Recently, I was at the farmers’ market in Santa Barbara. It was a gorgeous, clear day with lovely mountain views. Since I have been spending more time at home or in Montecito, I haven’t been downtown as much, so it was nice to spend my morning on Cota Street. Because I’m blogging (as you know if you’re reading this) and now creating much more social media content, when I’m out and about I will think of photo ideas. Especially when I’m actually somewhere different than my house/neighborhood/couch.
So I did what probably half of the people at the market did – I decided to take some (shameless) selfies. I exited the market and found a somewhat shady sidewalk spot away from any other people. I’m trying to hold lavender and bags of produce and take photos in midday lighting – having photo content goes hand in hand with blogging and social media, so this non-photographer is trying. Why I’m describing this funny don’t-smush-the-strawberries and try-to-reposition-the-olive-bread moment is that I was trying to get a good photo, and I didn’t hear two men walk up behind me until they were very close.
Now, I’m still getting used to putting my face out there a lot more these days and taking more photos in public, so I instantly had a flash of embarrassment. I quickly moved to the side and apologized that I didn’t see them and that I was so sorry. I thought, “Oh boy, these guys are probably thinking how rude I am that I’m taking up the sidewalk for my own selfie photoshoot. How mortifying.” I thought how they might be irritated or think I was foolish or self-absorbed. These were the thoughts that ran through my mind and made my cheeks feel warm.
These days it seems like people are more on edge, impatient, or judgmental, and I understand why. Everyone is dealing with this uncertain time differently and I think some days are better than others for all of us. With that said, I almost expected a rude look back or something muttered under their breath, but then something amazing happened…
While I was jumping out of the way and apologizing, one of the men said nicely, “No worries. Shine your light, girl!” Now this was said with all sincerity and in such a sweet way. It was encouraging and joyful. There wasn’t the “Ugh” there was the, “You got this!” It made me smile and laugh and reply, “Thanks!” It was such a simple, delightful moment that really stuck with me the rest of the day.
It made me think about how we can all be a little kinder and more patient. The person taking an extra moment to put a mask on when they forgot for a second? Maybe we can cut them some slack. The person chatting for a bit too long while checking out and there’s a line? Maybe they need that little extra bit of human contact for the day. The person talking loudly on their cell phone? Maybe they haven’t been able to see that friend or family member in months. We are all trying. Instead of being judgmental or exasperated, maybe we can be thoughtful, kind, and encouraging.
Let’s build each other up and brighten moments instead of darkening them. Let’s allow others to shine their lights and let’s shine our own light. That man could have made me feel guilty or embarrassed in that moment and instead he made me feel empowered and happy. The best part is, I’m sure that he didn’t think about this moment at all, but it has stayed with me – so much so that I immediately had his words pop into my mind when I sat down to write this piece. Turn that light on and shine away. After all, the world needs more light right now, and you just might brighten someone’s day.
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*Originally posted 7/28/20*