Be Gloria Kind

I attended a funeral on Friday.

My dear Aunt Gloria passed away at the age of 76.

My aunt was never on time for anything.

And this is one thing we wish she would have been late for.

My Uncle Jim asked if I would say a few words.

It was my honor to do so.

I prepared my remarks the night before.

I was ready.

Ready as I could be.

On the way to the chapel, a song came on the radio.

One of my favorite songs by Billy Joel.

She’s Got a Way About Her... the words landed soft on my heart.

That was my aunt.

She had a way about her.

Kind.

Compassionate.

Love personified.

It didn’t matter her struggles.

She was always focused on others.

And although she had heart trouble, she didn’t have a troubled heart.

She believed in the goodness of humanity.

She overlooked the humanness in us.

She believed that all things work together for good.

She believed in forgiveness.

Redemption.

And restoration.

She had an infectious laugh.

A contagious joy.

You knew when she was in the room.

She knew no other way than to be kind.

To everyone.

Gloria kind.

She used to say, “We all have special needs!”

“You never know when someone needs a hug.

A kind word.

A smile.”

Nothing was random to her.

Every action was intentional.

On purpose.

Perfect for the moment.

And as I say goodbye to this special lady, I think once more of her larger-than-life love.

She was five feet tall.

But she had a mighty presence.

I aspire to be Gloria kind.

And if we could all be like her, humankind would be better off.

Rest in peace, sweet lady.

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Kevin D. Brown is a branding and culture expert. He’s an award-winning motivational speaker, bestselling author, and the creator of The Hero Effect®. Follow him on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter/X.