Paws & Reflect with Steve & Nigel
#2: What Does It Cost to Be Kind?
Hi Everyone,
Welcome to another addition of Paws & Reflect, where I share a bit of what’s on my mind. Enjoy!
What Does It Cost to Be Kind?
I just finished up a continuing education class on autism. The subject of neurodiversity came up repeatedly, and I found myself moved by the presenter (herself autistic) as she made her case for asking, “What’s the big deal if someone is different from you?”
Her words made me think about my own journey from intolerance to genuinely valuing diversity in all its forms. All of my clients (and my friends!), neurodiverse and neurotypical alike, can do things I cannot. Why wouldn’t I want all of them in my life as friends, clients, and allies?
The presenter’s closing argument for kindness to one another and for patience in our interactions was to ask the question, “What does it cost us to be kind? To be patient?” It was a humbling and affirming moment, and I am grateful for it.
The overlap with human sexuality is obvious, isn’t it? We men and women all see life from a perspective unique to each of us. We each have something valuable to contribute. Our genders? Important? Yes, but hardly the basis for intolerance. Same with orientation, am I right? Sexual identity? What’s the big deal? Answer: there isn’t one.
And now, even Nigel and I are treating one another more kindly. It’s a great universe we get to live in.
In Other News…
Here’s a pic of Sharon and I at the “No King” rally in Reno.
I started recording solo videos for social media on a variety of topics. This clip on TikToK has gotten some attention. If you have a topic you’d like me to discuss, feel free to reach out!
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If you haven’t watched our latest video podcast, you can do so by clicking the link below. Our next podcast “Is Love a Spiritual Test?” goes live Dec. 1st!
Nigel and I thank you for your support!
“This is such a wonderfully simple and grounding reminder, especially with the holiday season sneaking up on us (along with the stress, the lines, and the family dynamics we pretend don’t stress us out). The idea that kindness basically costs nothing is something I’m holding onto, not just for the holidays, but for every random Tuesday the universe throws at me. Thanks for sharing this, Steve. Really hit home.”