As we take a moment this Soulful Sunday to reflect on the week that has passed, it’s essential to consider not just where we’re at in our lives, but also who we are as individuals and how we interact with those around us. Recently, there’s been a wave of nostalgia circulating—memories of growing up in the 70s, pictures and phrases that remind us of a time when life was simpler, yet complex in its own way. We often find ourselves comparing the past to the present, especially in how children are growing up today. But rather than deciding which era was better, perhaps it’s more fruitful to acknowledge that each time period is simply different, shaped by its unique challenges and opportunities.
One constant through time, however, is the way people treat each other. I remember, even as a child, witnessing acts of meanness—people being cruel to one another for reasons that often seemed trivial. Sadly, this is something that hasn’t changed much over the years. We are born into this world helpless, with nothing but our instincts to guide us. From the moment we take our first breath, we depend on others for survival, love, and kindness.
In thinking about how we interact with others, I was reminded of a book a friend of ours wrote called The Nice Factor by Tee. Dobbinson. It explores how, culturally, British people are often characterised by their niceness. We’re known for using phrases like “It’s very nice” or “It’s very lovely,” even in situations where we might not truly feel that way. For example, how often have we been served a meal in a restaurant that didn’t quite hit the mark, only to tell the server, “It was lovely” when asked how everything was? This tendency to avoid conflict, to maintain a veneer of politeness, is deeply ingrained in our culture.
However, as we navigate the complexities of our modern world, perhaps it’s time to take that “nice factor” a step further. Rather than simply avoiding complaints or glossing over our true feelings, we can actively choose to spread genuine kindness. Let’s not just be nice for the sake of niceness, but let’s strive to be authentically kind, going out of our way to make others feel valued and appreciated. It’s about enhancing that cultural trait of niceness into something more profound—compassion, understanding, and real connection.
As Pilates teachers, we have the unique privilege of guiding others in their journey of self-discovery, health, and well-being. This role also gives us a platform to influence how our clients perceive themselves and others. We can encourage them not only to be mindful of their movements but also of how they interact with the world. Just as we teach them to align their bodies, we can subtly guide them to align their actions with kindness, empathy, and compassion.
We live in a world where our differences—race, gender, background—are often highlighted, but when we strip it all back, we are all fundamentally the same. We are complex beings, each of us a collection of experiences, emotions, and dreams, trying to navigate this life the best we can. Every person you meet is a miracle in their own right, a unique combination of cells and consciousness, much like yourself.
So, as you go through your day today, take a moment to truly see the people around you. Whether it’s a colleague, a client, or a stranger in the street, remember that they, too, are on their own journey, facing challenges and seeking happiness just as you are. Life is too short and too precious to waste on anything less than kindness. Let’s unite in our shared humanity and use our existence to spread joy, love, and support to one another.
The answer to a fulfilling life is simpler than we might think: be kind, be compassionate, and always choose love. In doing so, we contribute not just to our happiness but to the happiness of humanity itself. So, this Soulful Sunday, let’s commit to being the best versions of ourselves—not just for our sake, but for the sake of everyone we meet.
After all, a life lived in kindness is a life truly lived.
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