When was the last time you did something nice for a stranger?
This month we’re talking about kindness. There is nothing as rewarding as giving back to others. It’s been proven that kindness has a domino effect. When one person stops to do something kind for another, those who witness the act are inspired to do the same. Kindness is the best medicine, and being kind can change the world one small act at a time.
I witnessed so much kindness recently as I was traveling and it warmed my heart. While sitting in the Denver International Airport I noticed a mother traveling alone with five children. She was trying to keep them all organized and you could see a bit of frustration in her actions. Others must have noticed, because a lady approached her and said, “Can I help you get to your next gate?” As she did that people started looking at each other and another lady got up and said, “I can help also.” You could see the relief in this mother’s eyes and hear the thankfulness in her voice. One small act of kindness from a complete stranger changed that mother’s day.
I also experienced kindness as I was boarding a plane. I was carrying a heavy suitcase full of books and struggled to lift the suitcase into the overhead bin. A gentleman got out of his seat to help me lift the suitcase and I was sure to thank him for his actions. When we landed, he also helped me get the suitcase out of the overhead bin.
There are so many simple ways to show kindness to those you love or to complete strangers. One way is to leave someone a nice note. Put a note in their bag, post it on the mirror or leave it in their car. One small gesture will improve their day and will also make you feel good. You can do the same by sending someone a text message. Another way to share kindness is behind the wheel. Sometimes traveling can be stressful and hectic, so show kindness by letting someone merge into your lane. If you’re on a flight and you see someone who needs help with their children or with a bag, step up and lend a hand. Remember that your act of kindness may be exactly what that person needs to turn their day around.
Being kind is one of the easiest things you can do. Share a smile, give a compliment, send a message, post a note – all ways that you can show your kindness and not only improve your day but improve someone else’s as well.
“Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.” - Desmond Tutu
