Running or walking the Marriotts way is a familiar route for me. So passersby that I recognize, often catch my eye and I give a smile or nod, sometimes exchanging hello, good morning, other times nothing. One particular lady stands out with her fluorescent jacket and bicycle. Her bags bulging with bottles, cans and plastic hanging from the panniers and handlebars. Because this lady is part of the world around me, I observe her as part of noticing and mindfully paying attention. I see her picking up rubbish from the path and hedgerows that line Marriotts way. I say hello she smiles back, and I notice her contribution to the bigger picture.
The other day whilst running, I turned and said “just to let you know your labours do not go unnoticed. Thank you for caring.”
She looked and smiled. No need to converse or get involved. Just a simple interaction to acknowledge the presence and activity of another human being.
I wondered afterwards how many people get noticed in the world, quietly going around caring for others, caring for the environment. People who just contribute without recognition, without thanks.
Maybe you know or have noticed someone like this and maybe you could smile or give some form of recognition as to what they do.