A fountain of gladness
I enjoyed this fountain on my walks at Regent University, Virginia Beach, June 2016.
“A kind heart is a fountain of gladness, making everything in its vicinity freshen into smiles.” — Washington Irving
During my days on campus this past month, there were some long hot lunchtime walks between the communications building (where I had classes) and the library. Fortunately the campus is gorgeous and well shaded with countless trees, but on sunny days I still got a bit warm, especially if I was carrying an armful of books.
Halfway down the walkway between those two buildings, there’s a beautiful fountain. Usually I did not take the time to venture up to enjoy it at close range, though it was tempting to do so. But even from a distance, it was refreshing to see. Such spots of beauty set into lovely park-like surroundings really do lift the spirit and relax an overwhelmed mind.
I think Irving picked a perfect analogy in likening a kind heart to a fountain. Have you ever noticed that someone’s kindness can make a moment or hour sparkle with refreshing joy? Like water on a wilting plant, kindness can fortify and calm us with a renewed sense of worth and strength. A kind heart radiates support and welcome to all who come near.
Today, I wish you many encounters with kindness, whether as the source, or the recipient, or both. The world needs more gladness; let’s get out there and make a splash!
This post was first published seven years ago today. The original post, comments and photo are linked, along with two other related posts, below. These links to related posts, and their thumbnail photos, do not appear in the blog feed; they are only visible when viewing the individual posts by clicking on each one. I have no idea why, nor do I know how they choose the related posts. That’s just the way WordPress does things.
- Posted in: Uncategorized
- Tagged: encouraging, fountains, friendship, fun, helpful, kindness, refreshing, rejuvenating, smiles, splash, water
Defeat Despair 
Hi Julia,
I am Teresa from HK. Do you remember me? I sent you messages over Messenger. But there’s no response. I am not sure whether you still use Messenger.
I will go to UK with my 15-year-old son next week and will stay there for a month. If you would go to UK in July, we can meet there.
By the way, do you still live in the same address that appeared on the card you sent to me years ago?
Always miss you here! Wishing your family all the best!
Love, Teresa
Hello Teresa, OF COURSE I remember you! How could I forget you? By now, those who read the comments will learn that the two of us indeed did meet in the UK, against all odds, and it was like a dream come true! Definitely the highlight of my trip!!! And such a joy to meet your son. I do hope to compose a post about it soon, but in the meantime, thank you for our London walks, for introducing me to Bubble Tea and buying me a delicious dinner. Most of all, thank you for your presence in my life, a tangible reminder that life brings unexpected magic, and dreams do come true! I’m already planning our next time together, here (in the USA), there (in Hong Kong) or anywhere! And yes, I’m still at the same address…Until we meet again, know that you are always in my heart! ❤