10 Ways to Show A Friend You Care

This pregnancy has not been easy. I am done with the first trimester, but the nausea has not lifted...yet. Some new friends took pity on me this week and both, of their own initiative, brought us meals. Just as I was spiraling into a bit of a funk and feeling sorry for myself, these two reached out and offered to give me a break from cooking. The result? An attitude change from self-pity to gratitude, the realization that small gestures really do mean a whole lot, and some much needed extra time to recover.

I have many goals for 2017. There are so many things I want to do and things I want to improve on. One of those things is to build community and to reach out more. Small gestures and big alike can make such a huge difference. I knew that before, but this week and these lovely meals have reminded me that to reach out and think of others is so very important. I am so grateful for new friends and the wonderful community of people I am surrounded by!

Here are 10 Easy Ways to Show a Friend You Care: 

1. Offer them a meal.

2. Bring them a care package. Ginger tea for pregnant moms, tissues and cough drops for sickies, baby gifts or something to pamper new moms, etc.

3. Offer to help with laundry or housecleaning.

4. Come over to care for little ones so they can shower or nap.

5. Send them a thoughtful gift to brighten their day. Pick something that shows you thought about it.

6. Send Flowers

7. Spend time with them. Call them up and invite them to coffee or plan an outing.

8. Share ideas with them such as recommendations for shows to watch or books to read.

9. Send them some social media love. In person, or hand-written is best but it doesn't hurt to mention them on Facebook or Instagram as well. You can always shout out to the greater community so they send their love and prayers too.

10. Send them a card. Handwritten cards are rare these days and really show you care.

When you know someone is celebrating, celebrate with them. When you know someone is suffering show them you care. Building community is all about sharing in joys and sorrows and lifting each other up.