When I see the word grace, I always think of a ballerina. My favorite ballet is Swan Lake. When I was a girl, my mom had gave me a picture book of it. Oh to have seen Mikhail Baryshnikov dance in this work!
But, today we are talking about a different kind of grace. Offering grace releases people from judgement, and includes yourself as well. Grace is being considerate and thoughtful, full of goodwill. Graceful people are pleasing in demeanor, and extend unmerited favor.
Give others the benefit of the doubt. Don’t take everyone’s behavior so personally. Perhaps they are just having a bad day or are dealing with some bad news or negative circumstances. Showing them grace reassures them with the hope that things will get better.
Grace is something you show to yourself. Replace negative self-talk with acceptance and positive affirmations.
How would we find our purpose in grace? Simple acts of kindness and service. Helping and doing things for others without being asked or paid. Reaching out in uncomfortable situations to offer comfort and reassurance. Practice patience and understanding. Serve your community with generosity.
Offering Grace
Some ideas I saw on Pinterest really captured my attention.
- Gather your old totes, backpacks, and handbags. Fill them with personal hygiene and sanitary products, first aid items, snacks, and bottled water. Keep in your car and give them to a homeless person or donate them to an agency.
- Knit scarves. Loop them on a fence with a sign, “take one if you need one!” I think this would work for umbrellas too!
- Set up a Blessing Box in your neighborhood. Much like a lending library, but filled with canned and boxed foods. Your sign could say, “Take what you need, Bring what you can!”
Additionally, you can get involved with a charity. I love Soldier’s Angels. They collect items to send care packages to our troops. They provide support for the deployed, veterans, and their families. For the 11th consecutive year, Soldiers’ Angels has been recognized as a Top-Rated Nonprofit by GreatNonprofits.
Think about impacting the next generation with grace by taking part in a reading program at a local school or library. Volunteer for scouting programs or at a dance school. You could encourage the next great ballerina!
What are your thoughts on practicing grace?
“One who loves a pure heart and who speaks with grace will have the king for a friend.” Proverbs 22:11
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