By Stacie Prada

Have you ever been in a mood and had something happen that changed it in a moment? It happens a lot, and some moments stick through the years.

I recall being at work years ago, and cheerfully saying, “Good morning!” They responded quickly and sharply, “What’s good about it?”

I don’t remember how I responded then, but I still think about how it startled me. I felt like I’d done something wrong, and I wasn’t sure what. My mood swiftly dropped from happy to resentful.  This memory helped me learn the life lesson that we’re all living different experiences, and lots of interactions have nothing to do with us.

The same holds true for the ability of strangers to lift my spirits.  I regularly recall the child who years ago mistook me for their mom.  While I perused the shelves at eye level, I felt a tight hug around my legs paired with, “I love you.”  The child looked up at me and realized I wasn’t their mom. They quickly released me and ran to their mom in embarrassment.  Their mom and I exchanged a quick smile and assurance all was fine. I was left surprised by how good it felt to receive love that wasn’t even meant for me. I was grappling with immensely difficult life circumstances, and that moment lifted me up in a way I really needed at the time.

My mood shifts between highs and lows throughout the year, but it can feel even more intense during the holiday season. I’m physically managing intensified multiple sclerosis symptoms, and I’m emotionally managing some sadness that the holidays often bring. I’m often interacting with more people than usual and pushing myself to do more than my usual routine.  The stakes seem higher, and I anticipate I won’t always be at my best. Similarly, every other person out there has their own world of stress, hardship, and expectations.

This isn’t earth-shattering, surprising insight, but reminders to think beyond my thoughts help me when I’m having a hard time. Considering how hard life is for many helps me be more patient and compassionate. When I aim to spread kindness, I feel better about myself. When I feel better about myself, I’m more likely to spread kindness. That feels good.

*Stacie Prada was diagnosed with RRMS in 2008 just shy of 38 years old.  Her blog, “Keep Doing What You’re Doing” is a compilation of inspiration, exploration, and practical tips for living with Multiple Sclerosis while living a full, productive, and healthy life with a positive perspective. It includes musings on things that help her adapt, cope and celebrate this adventure on earth. Please visit her at http://stacieprada.blogspot.com/