I have this thing about random acts of kindness. It makes me giddy. The idea of brightening someone’s entire day or even a minute of their day brings me entirely so much joy.
Now sure, it’s great to get that reassurance from someone. That “thank you”, the smile back, that instant gratification that what we made somewhat of a difference.
However, there is something about the sneakiness and the slyness of a “random” act of kindness. The kind of kindness that only you know you put forth. The kind of kindness that makes others want to be kinder. The kind of kindness that is utterly contagious.
Now that my friends is what I call pure bliss.
“Every act of kindness grows the spirit and strengthens the soul.” It’s true… you become richer and wealthier as a person by giving more. Seems a little backwards, right? Give and become richer? Yes! Don’t y’all believe in karma? Your spirit gets brighter and lighter and your soul overflows with energy.
I promise after you decide to do just one random act, you’ll feel this high. That one will turn into two, then three, then seven, then ten and then you will be doing random acts of kindness everyday without even noticing.
My point is, you don’t need a reason to help someone. You don’t need to know if they are having a bad day or good day. If they are rich or poor. Nice or cruel. Just do it. You’ll be better for it.
“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” This is the best part about a random act of kindness, it can be big or small, skinny or fat, and still make the largest impact on someone’s day. It can cost nothing and be meaningful. And it can also cost a lot of somethings and not be meaningful. It’s all about the backbone of why you’re doing, what you’re doing.
Ideas for Random Acts of Kindness
Leave money in a gas pump for the next person who is annoyed that they have to spend money on yet another tank of gas.
Let someone go in front of you in line. They might be in a hurry, they might not, but they will appreciate not having to waste the extra time,
Buy flowers and leave them on the windshield of someone’s car. Who doesn’t like a pretty flower every once and awhile?
Pay for someones coffee or buy someone’s dinner.
Bring a homeless man or woman a cup of coffee on a cold day or an ice cold refreshment in the heat of the summer.
Hold the door open for someone. Seems self-explanatory or just respectful, but you would be surprised these days.
Leave a 5 dollar bill in your Red Box so the next person can buy some popcorn and candy to enjoy while watching.
Send friends and family “just because mail;” random thoughtfulness is the best form of thoughtfulness.
Leave quarters in the vending machine for the next hungry snacker behind you.
Put sticky notes with motivational and positive quotes in random public places.
It’s not the instant gratification or any gratification for that matter. It’s the feel good, the high, the bliss, and the spreading of kindness and happiness back into the world. Let's make the world better place again... one random act of kindness at a time.