Cradling the warm bowl of soup
I sip
palms tingle as I hug the bowl
Heated liquid slides down my throat
and starbursts fill my chest
All I have
I offer to you
and my hands are no less warm
my heart no less heated
for what is shared
becomes multiplied
*Care is more than something we receive. It’s something we hold, and in holding it for others, it also holds us.
Steve had his surgery this week, which had me thinking about how care moves between people—like a quiet currency. It costs something, yes, time, energy, patience. But it also gives back in many ways too.
When we offer real, present care to someone, whether in a hospital hallway or at home after surgery, we’re not just doing a task. We’re transmitting calm, compassion, and dignity. And in doing so, we can’t help but feel those same things ripple through us.
I’ve stepped into the role of carer again this week, and it’s reminded me that what we give, we also carry. Kindness leaves a trace. Tenderness doesn’t disappear after it’s offered—it stays with the giver, too.
This is the true currency of care:
It flows in both directions.
It softens what’s hard.
And it changes us from the inside out.
Reveries Journal No. 8 is also published today and holds the same threads as this post and expands on the story a little. If you would like to read on, the post is here
sending healing spirits to Steve. it’s a miracle when you think about it, how bonds are created wherein we provide care to others, even if those bonds aren’t that strong. we had a kid’s show here called Mr. Rogers and a point he would make is in times of trouble “look for the helpers”. perhaps it’s my simple nature, but i always took that to be such a profound piece of knowledge. Mike
I agree Michael, the silver lining to any crisis are the carers who show up to help.
Thanks for this, Kate. “Kindness leaves a trace.” It’s good for all of us to remember this, but especially for caregivers who may sometimes feel burdened. Beautiful.
How lovely to hear from you Camilla ❤️
Your words truly carry warmth and kindness and I admire your giving caring heart Kate. All the best to Steve and to you. Being a care giver isn’t always easy, I knows 🩷
It’s made us slow down for sure Cindy – and appreciate the little things 💕
Good for you!!🩷
A currency indeed. I love how you wrote this. Sending you green energy for all the care giving you give. Bless you Kate. You blessed me today with this post. Thanks.
Thankyou Selma 💕
Hoping Steve’s recovery is quick and complete.
Thanks for the insight into caring too.
Thanks DD
Thinking of you, Kate xx
Thanks Janet