Acts of Kindness

A thoughtful gift from a former student, Matt, who knows my appreciation of all things Cumberbatch. 

When I see the many things at my work desk, I have to say that I feel grateful. Every single day, my eyes greet visual evidence of the kindnesses afforded me from colleagues, friends, former students, & family. Those who know me have developed an understanding of my favorite things. So, I thought I’d honor that kindness publicly with a big thank you.

A fabulous Hermione print from colleague, Katy. 

From my decorative touches in my cubicle space at SNHU, many know of my undying love for things related to Harry Potter, tea, stationery, literary action figures, POP figures, antique etchings, books, shells, journals, & coloring books. Just to name a few favorites. Gardening, old postcards, travel, & pens are also included. But I could go on & on.

Elderflower cordial, kindly brought back from the UK from a team member, Chris, who know this is like England in a bottle to me. 

There have been so many occasions when the kindest people have left surprises on my desk for me to find. I try to do the same for others, but I must admit that when I’m in the months between January to March, the effects of seasonal affective disorder really kick up my introversion & I get like tunnel vision, investing all energy into my work (even to my own physical detriment). With spring, sun, & longer days, I feel like a creature crawling out from hibernation. Welcome back to the world! So, I’ll be making up for lost time.

Certainly, I imagine I’m not the only introvert who struggles with that time of year. As such, you’ll notice that this blog launched in February, as part of my attempt to focus on positive things & share with other introverts not unlike myself.

My Hermione to my Luna (Emily) left me this ADORABLE figure & book of love poems. 

When I take stock of all of the many, varied gifts that appear in my work space, I find I get warm fuzzies. It warms my heart to honor the kindness shown to me by practicing gratitude. I’m able to remember that the people present in my life, those who have been unwavering in their regard, are treasures beyond all value conceived.

The signed artist’s Harley Quinn poster is from my DH & the hand-drawn origami art is from my nephew August, while her Qm figurine is from co-worker Ben. 

All this to say that I feel amazingly lucky to have support in my life. I love my job at SNHU, where I’m lucky enough to work in my area of expertise (English literature & creative writing) with tremendous colleagues & inspiring leadership. It’s never lost on me that far more talented, gifted, & successful people than I have been forced out of academia, so I do value the opportunity to do things like work on & oversee the launch of an online MFA Program in Creative Writing, which started with its first cohort in February.

A goumet Oreo cupcake from an excusive bakery. 

This winter & spring, food items and beverage accessories were popular. These even included receiving a few candygrams for Valentine’s Day. From tea mugs to tea bags, cupcakes & homemade confections, to stationery, my SNHU desk has greeted me with a lot of love, thanks to the wonderful thoughtful people who have made me feel appreciated.

For those introvert/extrovert/ambivert readers who perform these anonymous or quiet acts of kinds, thank you from the bottom of my heart. You make the world a better place!

An awesome mug from my Hermione. 

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