Flight inbound

I know I promised the second installment of my working parent series this week. But life had other plans.

I am writing this a few days before sending it, on a flight to North Carolina. I got a call last week that my mom is very ill. Our relationship, and her relationship with everyone in our family, has been strained for decades. But my sister and I are both on flights to North Carolina today, where our mom has lived for the last many years.

I won't go into all the family details, medical details, or take this newsletter too far into material you had no reason to expect when you opened this. I will just say that I am glad we will make it there in time.

But I do want to say something about kindness. Over the last 72 hours, I have experienced more kindness from more people than I could have imagined.

From my uncle, who called to tell me the news. From my sister, who immediately offered to go with me. From my dad, who reassured me when I needed it. From my husband, who is the best listener.

Maybe this is what you should expect from your family? But I've also found kindness in so many other places. From coworkers who have been supportive. From my fellow parents at a volleyball game. From the woman helping me with our hotel reservation. From strangers who let me cut in the security line so I would not miss my flight. From my row-mate on this very plane, who was friendly and compassionate but not intrusive.

I will be back next week with the data I promised about working parents and careers. For this week, be kind to someone who needs it. And call your people and tell them you love them.

With love,

Kieran

kieran@nerdprocessor.com
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