As we kick off a new year, I wanted to share a deeply personal story that reminded me how life’s smallest moments can lead to the most profound connections. 

It’s a story about family, kindness, and listening to the quiet nudges of the universe. I’ve loved London Drugs for as long as I can remember. Growing up, it was the place I visited with my grandma. London Drugs is not just a drug store for those who do not know; it’s as if Canadian Tire,/Costco and Shoppers had a baby and called it London Drugs. I often say, “If London Drugs doesn’t have it, you don’t need it.” It’s been a constant in my life—a source of joy and nostalgia—and this Christmas it gave me something I never could have imagined.

My childhood wasn’t always easy. Santa’s Anonymous was often the only source of Christmas presents I received growing up, and that kindness left a lasting impression on me. 

As an adult with children, we would adopt a family or families through similar programs every year. It’s my way of paying forward the generosity I was lucky enough to experience. The joy it brings is not measurable. I love spoiling my family; I know what it means to be a recipient. 

This year, as I shopped for my sponsored family at London Drugs, a cashier’s friendly persistence unexpectedly changed everything. Klaus (my partner) and I ended up splitting our purchases across two registers. When I was finished in my line, I joined Klaus, who was still finishing up, and when the cashier asked for my reward # and recognized my name, she asked, “If I knew the Bushells from New Westminster.” As we chatted, it slowly dawned on me that her “Aunt Stella” was also my Aunt Stella.

That meant… she wasn’t just a friendly cashier. She was my first cousin. 

I was stunned. The rest of the night was a blur of piecing things together, exchanging contact details, and shedding tears of joy: Pam, my newfound cousin. The next evening, Pam brought over a photo album. For the first time in decades, I saw pictures of my father as a young man, aunts, and cousins. I learned that Pam had lived just two streets away from me for years. 

The connection felt like a beautiful Christmas miracle—one I could have missed had I not acted from a place of kindness and patience.

Why am I sharing this story with you? 

Because it’s a powerful reminder to lead with kindness, imagine if I had been impatient or rude to that cashier, rushing through the line or letting frustration win. I would have lost the chance to connect with my family and end a challenging year with something so meaningful.

 It’s also a reminder to listen to your gut. Sometimes, the universe whispers instead of shouts, guiding us to unexpected places. It was as simple as following a cashier’s suggestion to switch lines. 

For you, it might be acting on a feeling, exploring a new opportunity, or asking for help when you need it most. So, as we look ahead to the opportunities of 2025, I encourage you to embrace those whispers. 

Maybe it’s time to revisit your mortgage, take advantage of one of the new programs for first-time homebuyers, or explore refinancing options to ease financial burdens. Just as my life changed with a simple moment of connection, small steps today can lead to meaningful changes for you and your family.

I’d love to hear if you’ve got a story of kindness, connection, or inspiration. Please email me—

I genuinely enjoy hearing from you. Wishing you a year filled with magic, kindness, and unexpected joys. 

With Kindness,

Jacquie

Image From London Drugs and the Facebook page Cambie Village.

Image credit: https://images.app.goo.gl/xi5hGfNikqEGcRqb8