Every now and then I stop to think about what those I love need, then I think about what I might do to support those needs.
Space
Sometimes those we love simply need the space and time to do the good work possible. They don't need our help at all, but instead they simply need us to give them the physical and mental space to do what it is they believe is right and good for themselves.
Encouragement
At other times, especially when our loved ones are striving for a goal that's difficult to reach or enduring a tough situation, what they need most is our encouragement. With encouragement we can remind those we love about the incredible gifts and capacity they have to work for their good dreams and get through the strife they are facing.
Support
Then there are times when people we love need our support--they may need us to pick up a few groceries, repair a broken machine, prepare a meal, clean a house, move furniture, or more. They need our time and energy in specific ways.
Connections
We can help one another by making connections. Recently one relative reached out to another to figure out a work problem. The relative made a connection that resulted in the kind of connection that bettered what he could do at work. When we connect people to one another, we create a path to good work and accomplishment--connections can make a significant difference in the work we do, help we get, and problems we solve.
Prayer
Simply by praying for one another, we bring strength to one another. I do believe in the power of prayer. I've witnessed that power over time in my life. Our good thoughts, wishes, prayers lend significant support to others.
Generosity
Sometimes we have exactly what another person needs, and with generosity, we can provide people with money, time, objects, and events to support another person's good life.
Wisdom and advice
It's wise to tread gently in this category since advice is not always welcome or appropriate. Yet, but sharing stories of similar events, trials, or situations, you may help another navigate their lives in positive ways. Over time, I've received lots of sage advice from good people in my life. I've used that advice and that's made my life better. If I think my advice will help, I'll lend that to another, and I'll always add, this may work for you or not since I know that I can never fully understand the life situation of another person.
Confidence
At times, simply demonstrating that you're confident about another person's choices and decisions is a good show of support.
Questions and interest
Demonstrating interest and asking questions is a good show of support for others.
Asking for advice
When we ask those we care about for advice, we demonstrate our regard for their expertise, choices, and actions in life.
Acknowledgement and celebration
Acknowledging and celebrating the important moments and occasions in the lives of those we love brings life meaning and demonstrates our love and affection for those we love.
It's good to reflect on how we can support and be there for those we love and care about. That helps to build a stronger, more loving and generous community--the kind of community that lends us strength as we navigate this often arduous road of life. Onward.