I Would never have known…
The Unseen Gifts of Service
As I said in my previous post, I have stood down from my role. One of the most unexpected gifts of this has been hearing people’s reflections.
Below is part of one of the most beautiful messages I have ever received:
“At a previous festival, I remember you speaking about women, their place in the world, and relationships. I couldn’t tell you the exact words now, but my heart still remembers them — they truly inspired me.
When you helped me at this year’s festival, I honestly don’t think I’ve felt more seen in a long time. Thank you. It touched my soul and reminded me that it’s okay to let people care.
Thank you for your time, your kindness, and all your first-aiding over the years. You’ve led it in such a lovely way, and it has always been so much more than plasters and icepacks to everyone around you.”
Leading from Service
When I’ve been in these roles, I’ve increasingly done so from a place of being in service—not from self-sacrifice, but from letting some greater purpose work through me.
This perspective has led to the most amazing interactions and conversations. I’ll suddenly notice someone, and an action will occur to me—maybe just a smile, offering help, listening, or sharing something of myself or my knowledge.
The Reciprocity of Curiosity
I’ve learned that these interactions aren’t one-way. I lead with curiosity, and almost always, there’s a nugget of wisdom for me too.
It’s been easy in the past to think I know more or better. Years of training left me with a head full of knowledge and opinions on everything. But now, I see the ripple effect of how I live—and how even the smallest action can allow someone to feel profoundly seen.
Perspective Shifts with Change
When we outstay our roles, interactions can lose their potency, and new perspectives can be blocked. Standing down has given me the privilege of hearing reflections that reveal the unseen impact of my actions.
Even years later, a conversation on a subject I’m passionate about can ripple out and touch someone who was silently witnessing from the sidelines.
Your Turn:
Is there a role you’ve stepped back from that allowed you to see the unseen impact of your actions?
What small act of presence or service might ripple further than you expect?