One of the most important things they teach you when you're younger is the golden rule; treat others the way you want to be treated. We grow up learning to share, play with others, use our manners while showing kindness and compassion. It is so important that these ideals do not get lost as we grow as people.

Each and every person is writing their own story while on this earth. You don't know what someone goes through on a day to day basis. It is so important that we as people continue to support and love one another instead of putting each other down. Recently, my eyes have been opened up to the importance of how special life really is. Each day truly is a gift. I know that it may sound chiché but it is one of the truest things I know. I find that the best way to spend these days is to simply be kind to one another. If you reach out to someone who is having a difficult time, that simple gesture could turn their whole day around, maybe even their week. You really don't know what people are dealing with. Oftentimes, we as people put others down to boost ourselves up. This is not a healthy way of spreading kindness and positivity. Once one is secure with themselves, there will be no need to put others down.

Spread kindness to others.

It's simple, be kind to others. Surround yourself with people who value kindness the same way you do. Allow yourself to put yourself in someone else's shoes to attempt to understand what they're dealing with. Don't judge someone if you've just met them. There's so much more to people than meets the eye. Be open to accepting and loving people for who they are, faults and all.

Love yourself.

This to me is the key to everything. When you love yourself it is much easier to love and accept others. Don't put yourself down. Allow yourself to be happy with who you are and if you're not happy, change it. You are in control of your own happiness.

There are plenty of people out there who are good at spreading negativity; don't be one of them. In a world where fear and negativity take such a prominent role in the news and on social media, take a moment and think about what you can do to spread love and kindness during what seems to be a dark period in our lives. Small acts of kindness can make a big difference so do not think they go unnoticed. Spread kindness, love others and most importantly love yourself. This life is short and is not guaranteed; make sure to live your happiest life.

"Be kind whenever possible. It's always possible." -- Dalai Lama