One minute of Zen

Since relocating to a coastal town, I go to the beach often and share a video of the ocean with my friends each day titled “One Minute of Zen.” About a year after moving here, I then met Zen Waters. I knew instantly, with a name like that, she was my kind of person. What I didn’t realize was how big an impact she has on so many lives daily. I am so grateful for her friendship and learn from her continuously.

Zen is the epitome of kindness and a spreader of love. She doesn’t seek acknowledgment or bragging rights for the many things she does. She just does them with unconditional support. She serves the unsheltered community, which is where I met her and am proud to work alongside her. Zen spreads kindness daily. If there is a spaghetti dinner fundraiser, Zen is there. If there is a night of remembrance, Zen is there. If there is a welcoming dinner at church, Zen is there. If there is a march for humanity, Zen is there. If there is a parade, Zen is there. If there is a gathering to break bread, Zen is there. If there are people in need, Zen is there. She may not be able to do it all, but she knows how to rally the troops of like-minded people and fill that need with confidence.

Zen doesn’t judge. She listens and makes sure people feel cared for. There are some mottos she goes by that will stick with me. One motto is “All are welcome.” Her kindness is spreading and more people are coming. Sometimes we panic about having enough to go around. Not Zen. Her other motto is “We serve in abundance, not scarcity.” She is confident another donation will come in to meet the needs. Quietly, she has become a power of attorney for some who have no one. She serves the elderly on a weekly basis as well. Zen does not forget anyone. On a cold night someone can be released from the county jail with nowhere to go. Who does the staff call? Zen Waters. She has made sure that person makes it to the cold night shelter.

Kindness truly does matter. Zen Waters lives, bathes and breathes in kindness every single day. My heart is fuller because I experience the way Zen carries herself and spreads joy to all. My hope is that you meet Zen someday. If there were any way each of us could learn just a little bit of what it looks like to constantly spread kindness, we could all make a difference. We could all be like Zen. All are welcome.

Traci Robertson has lived in Fernandina Beach for five years and has worked at Century 21 Miller Elite for three years. Her background was in social work for 18 years prior to moving here. Serving on Saturdays is her favorite day of the week!

Traci is an active member of the Nassau County Chamber of Commerce, and she loves supporting small businesses. Giving back to our community in all ways is very important to her. 

If you have a story you'd like to share here in the Fernandina Observer — about a neighbor or friend or stranger or business that showed kindness, or about kindness and compassion in general — please contact Peggie Weeks at pegweeks@gmail.com