It seems like I am reminded of acts of kindness in the most unexpected ways and at the most unexpected times. I have come to the conclusion that while many acts of kindness are planned, many also fit the random category, meaning unplanned, last minute. When I show random acts to others, it lifts my spirits and makes me feel good, but I have to admit that when I see random acts of kindness that someone else is doing for others, no matter how big or small, it continues to surprise me. What I have noticed is that small acts of kindness create the same connection as big ones,—good feeling between people.
And, they are so easy to do.
The other day at the airport, I noticed a man with a large duffle bag, simultaneously holding a small child and trying to get a cart using his credit card. It just wasn’t working, and he was seriously juggling, finally giving up on the attempt to remove the cart. A woman nearby came over, put in her credit card and then delivered the cart to him. She expected nothing in return, and when I complimented her on this gracious act, she was surprised someone had noticed. It was a small gesture—a few dollars on her credit card, a minute of her time—but I guarantee you it meant a lot to the person she helped.
It made me realize how much opportunity is out there for random acts of kindness and that I needed to do more. It also made me aware of what a planned, more significant act of kindness could do. So, my plan is to send more of both out into the universe. Care to join me?
