One Bright Act of Grace at a Time

A dear friend recently shared a story that stirred something deep in my heart. It’s a story originally told by author Elizabeth Gilbert, and it beautifully reminded me of something many of us forget:

That we each have the power to bring light into the world – even when life feels dim.

Let me share it with you…

“Some years ago, I was stuck on a crosstown bus in New York City during rush hour…
The mood was heavy. Tired faces. Harsh words. Nobody offered a pregnant woman a seat. Frustration was thick in the air.
Then, just before the bus reached Seventh Avenue, the driver clicked on the intercom. Calmly, he said: “Folks, I know it’s been a rough day. I can’t do anything about the traffic. But here’s what I can do. As you get off the bus, I will reach out my hand. As you walk past, drop your troubles into my palm. Don’t take them home to your families tonight. I’ll carry them for you. Later, when I drive past the Hudson River, I’ll open the window and throw them in.”
Silence… and then, laughter. Something shifted.
At the next stop, one by one, people mimed dropping their burdens into the driver’s open hand. Some laughed. Some teared up. Everyone participated. The ritual continued at every stop – all the way to the river.”

Isn’t that incredible?

It reminded me that sometimes, healing doesn’t come from a grand gesture, a wise guru, or an expensive retreat. Sometimes it’s just a moment of kindness. A willingness to be human together. A simple act of grace.

This story also reminded me how easy it is to feel powerless when the world seems chaotic. We can’t always fix what’s broken. We can’t solve everything. But we can bring light. And that light – your light – makes a difference.

So I invite you to ask yourself:

✨ Where in my life can I be the light today?
✨ How might I soften a heavy moment for someone else… or for myself?
✨ What burden am I ready to drop?

You are the light.
Not because of what you do or achieve, but because of who you are at your core – when your heart is open, your soul is steady, and your presence is felt.

Let this be your reminder this month: you don’t need to have all the answers to make a difference. One small moment of grace can ripple in ways you may never see.

And if your soul is calling for more – more light, more peace, more connection – then I’d love to walk with you on that path.

You can explore the offerings on my website. Whether it’s a healing circle, an upcoming retreat, or a one-on-one conversation, you’re warmly invited. There is space for you here.

Visit: www.josiethomson.com

With love and light,