I have no plan to take more holiday photos at this time of the year because here in the Philippines the season official starts on September 1. Today I saw this big installation and stopped. This simple Nice List got me
Hello guys I am back and it is passed 3 a.m., still sleepless here. Instead of tossing and turning trying to catch that elusive calm or stare at the ceiling, I decided to write about something that made me smile today. Earlier, we went to SM Mall San Fernando in Pampanga for a change, and while looking for some place to have lunch I saw this big, cheerful figure holding a “Nice List.” It instantly caught my attention maybe because it felt like a gentle reminder that kindness still matters, especially now that the holidays are here. I would normally just walk past the decoration installation at the mall but today I was like that kid in me when I would appreciate such a beautiful themed decors.
I think I like the velvet ribbons dominating the tree like roots of kindness rooting itself to it
Looking at it, I could not help but think what does it really take to be on that list? The genuine intention to be nice not social media nice or when the camera starts to roll. It is not about being perfect but it is about the though of trying. About being patient when things don’t go your way, about showing up for people and being sensitive to their non verbal cues, about choosing to be kind even when it’s hard. Maybe being on the Nice List isn’t about what others see, but about the quiet, good things we do when no one’s watching. Like you did it for yourself and for your own growth and personal improvement.
That child like wonder I miss
For me, being nice means taking care of the people around me in small and meaningful ways. Both my kids are now grown and building their own beautiful lives. My husband and I find joy in helping some friends and close relatives who might be needing some help be it time or a person to talk to and even share a meal with just like what we did today at the mall. We brought some friends there so they see a different scene other than their personal nook making sure they do not feel alone. Also I find peace in my small balcony garden growing vegetables and herbs with just water, patience, and a bit of sunshine. It still amazes me how something so simple can bring so much fulfillment especially when I share my very small harvest of greens to friend s and family. Sometimes being nice is just about being present like checking in on friends if they someone to listen to their cares, lending a hand to family, or sharing what we have without expecting anything in return.
The Santa chair is beyond the velvet rope sigh
The lights, the music, the little details of Christmas — they all come together to remind us of warmth and kindness. Even if the season gets busy or tiring or too materialistic for some, I hope we still find those small reasons to be kind. Maybe that’s how we keep earning our spot on the Nice List, one thoughtful act at a time.
