One Small Act of Kindness Goes a Long Way

With all the negative news and all the negative ways people treat each other, let’s observe Random Acts of Kindness week with February 17 being Random Acts of Kindness day.

Random Acts of Kindness Day began in New Zealand, but shouldn’t it be something everyone celebrates. AND not just one day of the year.

Take this week to jump-start your acts of kindness. Try one thing each day.

What can you do to show people kindness?

How about the old PLEASE, THANK YOU? Remember to say “please” when you ask for something and “thank you” when you receive something or someone does something for you. This tells people you appreciate you and all that you do.

What about SHOWING your SINCERE SMILE? Seeing others smile evokes a smile in us.

HELP SOMEONE WHO IS STRUGGLING. As you leave a store, have you ever seen someone having difficulty with their purchases? Trying to lift something heavy or fit something into their vehicle. Lend a hand. Don’t ask if you can help, say “Here, let me help you.” I know that when people offer to help me, I tend to refuse their help.

Why? I’m a mom; I was a teacher. I carted children, belongings, books, supplies all over. BUT when someone says “Here, let me help” it seems natural to allow them to help.

And if someone offers to help, be gracious and thank them. (I know many of us are suspicious of do-gooders who offer to help. Use your best judgement.)

MAIL A “THINKING ABOUT YOU CARD” TO SOMEONE. Most of the time our snail mail box is filled with junk mail, solicitations, and bills. And more bills. Remember the last time you got something in the mail that wasn’t one of those three things?

I do. Last week I got a letter from an old high school friend who I had been trying to connect with since October. It felt good to hear from her. AND this week I got a Valentine’s card from one of my cousins. It’s nice to get personal mail.

There are numerous things you can do to be kind to people without having to spend any money?

What will you do?

Share your ideas with the rest of the world by commenting.

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