this year

Were you kind this year?  You still have a few hours left.  Do something especially kind to close out 2021 and then begin the new year tomorrow being even more kind!

care and unite

I began this Thursday with sad news. The US is now averaging more COVID-19 cases per day than at ANY OTHER POINT in the pandemic, according to data updated yesterday from the CDC. A respiratory therapist was in the news for taking his own life, because the strain of the pandemic had gotten so bad. Very sad. We all need to care, and we all need to unite. 

 If you or anyone you know are having thoughts of suicide, 

please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 

1-800-273-8255 (TALK).

Ten years from now

Ten years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you did not do than by the ones you did do.  Think about it.

There's something to be said for spontaneity

We can plan all sorts of things to show kindness  to others, but sometimes the best acts of all are ones we don't plan ahead of time.  There's something to be said for spontaneity - let the moment guide you.  Of course that is much easier when you are always someone who does nice things for others!

we shape our lives

Former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt was very inspiring by the things she did and the words she spoke. I am touched especially by these words of hers: "In the long run, we shape our lives, and we shape ourselves. The process never ends until we die. And the choices we make are ultimately our own responsibility."

presence

Presents are always nice to receive.  (Did you receive many of them yesterday)?  As nice as it is to receive a physical gift, I think I think presence is even more important.  Let people know you care and that you are there for them.  That really is the best Christmas presence!

be happy

Whether you are celebrating Christmas today or looking ahead to the new year, or just relaxing as 2021 comes to its last week, be happy.  Try to be happy always.  Share that happiness too.  Help to make others happy.  Today is an especially good day to call, text, email, or otherwise reach out to others, even if it's just for a moment.  

memories

Sometimes you never know the true value of a moment until it becomes a memory that you wish you could experience again.  Many of you have wonderful memories of things that have happened on December 24th.  Today you can add some fresh memories.  Be sure to including a nice big serving of kindness!

don't forget the others

As we go about our planning and our shopping for holidays and celebrations, it's important that we not just look inward, but also look outward too.  Don't forget the others.  Don't forget those who are sad or lonely or poor or alone.  Don't forget the friends we no longer see or the relatives who live far away.  Don't forget those who have health issues or who have recently lost a loved one.  Kindness means thinking not just of ourselves, but of others.

giving

Giving to your favorite charity is something many people plan and budget for.  Sometimes things come up unexpectedly though.  A lot of organizations really need help right now.  A lot of individuals too.  Do what you can, if you can.

picking up the pieces

We all at certain times in our lives find ourselves broken. True strength is found in picking up the pieces.  The song says, "pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and start all over again."

Mom

Thinking today of my mom. Today would have been another birthday for her, just five days before Christmas. I don't think she ever got the attention she deserved. Mom was the kindest person I have ever known, and that memory keeps making me want to be kind and to encourage others as well. So much love! Thanks Mom. I miss you.

I've got your back

It's during the worst times of your life that you'll get to see the true colors of the people who say they care about you. If you say to someone "I've got your back," mean it!

all of us

Not all of us celebrate Christmas.  Not all of us celebrate any number of holidays.  One thing all of us can and should do though is respect each other and be kind to each other.  If someone says, "Happy holidays!" to you, thank them.  Wish them the same. 

Arnel's Foundation

Have you heard of Arnel Pineda Foundation Inc?  Have you even heard of Arnel Pineda?  (Well, I believe APFI operates solely within the Philippines with no outside affiliations, but check them out though).  They do good things.  I made a mention here a few years ago.  Their website is at https://arnelpineda.org/  It's the time of year when folks give gifts, and I know they would appreciate yours!

kind things

Need some kindness ideas? How about paying the bus fare for the passenger boarding behind you. Take muffins or doughnuts to work. Take a gift to new neighbors and introduce yourself. Wash someone else's car. Take a friend to lunch. Give the gift of time - volunteer. Let someone go ahead of you in line.  Pay for the person behind you in the drive-thru. 

people who inspire you

Focus more on the people who inspire you rather than annoy you.  You’ll get much further in life.

Albert Schweitzer words

Albert Schweitzer was a brilliant man. These are his words: "Constant kindness can accomplish much. As the sun makes ice melt, kindness causes misunderstanding, mistrust, and hostility to evaporate."

optimism

Everyone has to start out somewhere. This start always begins with optimism. Negative attitude is not going to take you anywhere.

The Friday night monsters

Yesterday at this time I only knew a little about the horrible tornadoes that struck six states causing death and destruction. The Friday night monsters were worse than I thought. It appears that entire communities have been wiped out. The American Red Cross makes it easy to send a quick $10 donation simply by texting REDCROSS to 90999.  Other donations can be made by going to redcross.org  Kentucky was by far the hardest hit state and a special fund has been setup to help there.  Go to https://secure.kentucky.gov/formservices/Finance/WKYRelief to donate.

Kindness in time of disaster

Waking up to some horrible news from the midsection of our country. More than thirty tornadoes have been reported to the National Weather Service across Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Illinois, Missouri, and Mississippi.  Property damage is incredible.  Injuries and fatalities are not yet known, but there may well be over 100 dead.  These people need help - all kinds of help.  Be generous and be kind.  Check with your local news sources for ways you can give.

value of a moment

Sometimes you never know the true value of a moment until it becomes a memory that you wish you could experience over and over again.

ALWAYS

 You never know what someone is going through.  Be kind to everyone.  ALWAYS!

there was a time

Have things changed?  It seems that way to me.  There was a time when people cared about each other, but I see less and less of that.  There is nothing humorous about the tornadoes that recently struck the middle of our country.  Anyone use that as fodder for comedy is just plain mean.  Oh, and the folks who refuse to get vaccinated or wear a mask, yet still want to be physically close to others?  That to me is very uncaring.  Let's care once again.  Let's be kind.

Button up your overcoat

As the cold comes to so many of us, kindness is all the more important.  I love the collection drives at this time of year for blankets and coats.  When the winder winds blow, so many cannot button up their overcoat because they don't have one.  Giving doesn't just help other folks get warm.  It leaves the giver with a warm feeling too!

Happy Monday!

"Monday, Monday

  So good to me
 Monday mornin'
 It was all I hoped it would be"

Those words from John Philips were running around in my head as I woke up!  I hope this Monday is all we hope it will be.  Be sure to be kind!

Everyone enjoys a little kindness

Start each day with kindness (you can always find a dose of it here), and spread it around too.  Everyone enjoys a little kindness!

all alone

Nobody should ever have to be alone.  Now some folks choose this, and that is their decision, but most people like a little human contact.  Help them.  Reach out!  A phone call or a card or a text can mean a lot to someone who lives by themself.  Paying them a visit could be nice too.

who gets the credit

The 33rd U.S. President Harry S. Truman said "It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit."  Oh that is so very true!

positive circle

They say what goes around, comes around, so let us all keep our circle positive. Let's think good thoughts, be kind to each other, speaking good words, and doing good deeds.

World AIDS Day

On this 33rd World AIDS Day, I remember all those who died, all who are living with HIV, all the men and women working for a cure, and I remember my friends. Randy Shilts, who died before I got to know him very well, wrote the book And The Band Played On, about the early days of AIDS.  Randy also once said “What society judged was not the severity of the disease but the social acceptability of the individuals affected with it.”

giving

Robert Louis Stevenson said "You can give without loving, but you can never love without giving."  

Oh and it's a perfect time to mention that today is GIVING TUESDAY.  Be as generous as you are able.

the seasons

The pumpkins and the fall leaves and the changing colors at this time of year is fun for me.  The cold and snow are just ahead.  That may be fun for you.  Summer?  Spring?  Do you have a favorite season?  How about the season of giving?  The season of kindness (which I believe to be all year) is really my favorite time!

What's in it for me?

At some time, you may have heard someone ask, "What's in it for me?"  Well in terms of being kind, there actually is something in it for you, although I don't think that's why we should be kind people.  Kind people attract kindness though, so the more kind you are, the more like it is that folks will be kind to you in return.  Another good thing is the feeling you get.  It's nice to do something for somebody else and not expect anything in return.  It makes you feel good.

your thoughts

How about you? I've often listed random acts of kindness here, but what about you? Please always feel free to add ideas in the comments section below or to just tell us a story about kindness. There are so many wonderful heartwarming stories out there, and sharing is caring!

groan

No matter how kind you are,
        German children are kinder!

thankfulness and kindness

I am always thankful for the kind people and the kind moments in my life.  Even in difficult times, there is always something to be thankful for and there is never a moment for us not to be kind.  To me, kindness and thankfulness seem to go hand in hand.  I'm thankful too for all who read this daily blog and hope that someone has been influenced along the way.

sharing is caring

Not everyone is able to enjoy a big holiday feast.  Remember, sharing is caring.  If you can afford it, consider preparing a double batch of everything, and then go delivery that extra food where it will be most appreciated.

Kindness toward shut-ins

Do you know anyone who is confined indoors, either as a result of physical or mental disability, or simply because they have no transportation? Days can become rather boring for some of these folks and an occasion note in the mail or call on the phone might really brighten things for them! Such a simple act is also a very kind thing.

because you exist

Someone out there feels better today because you exist.  Remember that.  Yes, it really is true.  There are probably even several someones.

Lonliness

Does being alone makes you lonely?  It can.  We can also be lonely being surrounded by unkind and uncaring people.  Spread that kindness.  Let people know that you care.  Don't make anyone live a lonely life, feeling afraid and often unloved.  Be kind.

good in others

Life becomes easier and more beautiful 

   when we can see the good in other people.

Become an inspiration

Let your life really mean something. Become an inspiration to other people so that they may try to do more and to become more than they are today.

strangers

I'm amazed at how sometimes strangers or people you just met will reach out to you with concern about your well-being.  Sometimes strangers are there before family or friends!  While it is nice to see people reaching out, I hope it spreads and involves those closest to us as well!

good heart

 If everything you do is with a good heart, expecting nothing in return, you will never be disappointed.

back together

One day, someone is going to hold you so tight that all your broken pieces fit back together. Or perhaps you will be that person for someone else.

no such thing as too kind

When we are kind to others, we always strive to become better than we are. There is no such thing as too kind. We just get better and better and when we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too.

three things

The great novelist Henry James, once said: "Three things in human life are important: The first is to be kind; the second is to be kind; the third is to be kind." Seems like we just might be on to something!

your voice for honesty and truth and compassion

"Never be afraid to raise your voice for honesty and truth and compassion against injustice and lying and greed.  If people all over the world would do this, it would change the earth." -William Faulkner

be my friend

Don’t walk in front of me, I may not follow.

Don’t walk behind me, I may not lead. 

Walk beside me.  Just be my friend.

Patriotism

Grateful for all who have served in our military, I was thinking of what it means to be a patriot, and these words from Theodore Roosevelt helped answer my question.  "Patriotism means to stand by the country. It does not mean to stand by the president or any other public official, save exactly to the degree in which he himself stands by the country. It is patriotic to support him insofar as he efficiently serves the country. It is unpatriotic not to oppose him to the exact extent that by inefficiency or otherwise he fails in his duty to stand by the country."

I shall not pass this way again

One of my favorite quotes about kindness is from William Penn, even though it might sound a lot like something sung by Jim Seals and Dash Crofts. Penn said "I expect to pass through this world but once. Any good therefore that I can do, or any kindness that I can show to any fellow creature, let me do it now. Let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again."

one of those days

Today seems to be one of those days.  I slept late (which I never day) and when I finally dragged myself out of bed, I felt all kinds of yucky.  Slow down!  There's a holiday this Thursday and another one a few Thursdays later.  Just because today didn't begin great, doesn't mean it has to be a bad day!  I'm going to be very kind to myself, and of course I'll be kind to others!

Kinder world

Every now and then I hear people say they are looking for a kinder world.  That of course would be wonderful indeed, but don't forget that we each have the power to make it so!

We don't take days off

It's Sunday, so no work for many and no school, and therefore no need to be kind, right? WRONG! I'm not serious.  We don't take a day off from caring about others. Being good and kind is an everyday occurrence we should practice every single day!

Passion

Passion is the secret ingredient to an amazing life. Be passionate about something. Be passionate about everything, if you can.

birthday wishes

Happy birthday to my sister today, who doesn't read this, but who otherwise is the greatest sister in the world.  Kind too.  She could easily be the poster-person for kindness!

Which is better

When someone does a kind thing for you, it feels really good, huh?  But wait!  It also feel good to be the one doing the kind deed.  Imagine that  Which is better?  We could begin a contest and keep giving and receiving over and over and test out which one becomes our favorite.

The World Needs More Kindness

The world needs more kindness.  The world needs more kindness.  The world needs more kindness.  The world needs more kindness.  The world needs more kindness.  The world needs more kindness.  The world needs more kindness.  The world needs more kindness.  The world needs more kindness.  The world needs more kindness.  The world needs more kindness.  The world needs more kindness.  The world needs more kindness.  The world needs more kindness.  The world needs more kindness.  The world needs more kindness.  The world needs more kindness.  The world needs more kindness.  The world needs more kindness.  The world needs more kindness.

kindness to those who have passed

When I was young, I was taught to never speak ill of the dead.  Nowadays it seems to happen all the time.  I'm not suggesting we lie.  What I will suggest is that if we live a life of kindness, nobody will have a bad word to say about us.  For those who have already passed, is it necessary to speak of their faults?  Regardless of the way they lived, can we not remember them with love?

Each day holds a surprise

Many powerful quotes came from priest and theologian Henri Nouwen.  He told us "Each day holds a surprise. But only if we expect it can we see, hear, or feel it when it comes to us. Let's not be afraid to receive each day's surprise, whether it comes to us as sorrow or as joy It will open a new place in our hearts, a place where we can welcome new friends and celebrate more fully our shared humanity."  Some good advice!

The Mace Cake

Years ago, a woman used to bring this most delicious mace cake to my church.  I don't remember how popular it was with others, but whenever I saw it, I just had to have a slice!  Years later, at another church in another city, I mentioned this to a lady who was planning coffee hour refreshments.  She had never heard of a mace cake, but she very kindly looked it up and presented one for church the next Sunday.  It was delicious!  That was her first mace cake, but not her last.  She didn't have to make one at all, but she did.  That's kindness.

only treats

If you will be going out trick-or-treating this weekend, may there only be treats for you and if folks should come to your door, be kind.

Humility

Here are some very wise words from C. S. Lewis:  "Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less."

over five years!

Wow!  I just realized I have been writing this for over five years!  I'm amazed.  (It's been thirteen years that I have been writing another blog).  I thank you for reading my words here.  You are very kind.  I hope this has helped me become a bit more kind.

wise words from Jesse Jackson

Listen to these words from the Reverend Jesse Jackson who said, "Never look down on anybody unless you’re helping them up."

together

 I am convinced that together we can all help make the world a better place.

Make me a list

Every now and then I have given a list in this space of some random acts of kindness.  For folks who are trying to become more kind and to do nice things, I think that can be a good starting point (although it isn't about just being kind sometimes).  Can you think of some random kind acts though?  I'd love to see ideas from someone else.  Let's think about it.

not even a tuna sandwich

There is nothing better than kindness, not even a tuna sandwich.  Seriously.  Being kind makes you feel good.  Having kind people around you is pretty wonderful too.

someone said

Yesterday someone said to me "Some things are so unexpected that no one is prepared for them." My response to them was "huh?"  (Was I kind)?

rise above

It has been said "Where there’s a will, there’s a way.  Don’t let your challenges hold you back.  Rise above and remember that anything is possible."  I don't know who said that, but it certainly is true.

center of attention

Do we do kind things so that people will like us or so we will get attention?  I hope not!  Being kind is part of who we are.  It comes naturally.  No special reward is necessary.  Nobody needs to give us credit for our kind acts.  Truly kind people don't need to be the center of attention.  

without them knowing

Real generosity is doing something nice for somebody without them knowing! What a great feeling to see their happiness and joy.

words from Dr Brothers

Psychologist, columnist, and tv personality Dr Joyce Brothers always had wonderful things to say.  Remember her?  Dr Brothers once said "Love comes when manipulation stops, when you think more about the other person than about his or her reactions to you. When you dare to reveal yourself fully. When you dare to be vulnerable."

technology

Technology has given us many advantages, but sometimes I think we have gotten too reliant on it.  Yesterday my phone and internet went out.  Yes, I know you can connect with your cell phone, but I'm not very good at it.  I don't even like texting.  (Hard to believe, huh)?  Anyway, my phone and internet came back on again, only to go out last night.  This morning, when I wanted to post here, I couldn't (at least not the usual way).  It's back again and so here am I with apologies for being tardy.  Please be kind.

make a difference

How will YOU impact someone's life today?

Think about it. Make a difference!

actions

Your words will lose value if your actions don’t match.  Don't just say you care about people.  Show it!  It's has been said many times that actions speak louder than words.

No money involved

Here are examples of some random acts of kindness. Tell your parents or your children why you love them. Make a point of finding the name of a supermarket or drugstore employee and then praise him or her through that company’s corporate office. As you go about your day, pick up trash. When drivers try to merge into your lane, let them in with a wave and a smile. Just a few ideas.  There are many more of course.  One cool thing is none of these involve money.  You can be kind without spending a dime!

your thoughts

For five years I have been writing encouraging words here each morning, urging us all to be more kind.  I have no idea if I have been at all successful.  I think it has made me more aware, and hopefully more kind as well.  I'd really appreciate your thoughts though.  Why are you reading this?  Have you ever told others about this blog?  Do you have some suggestions you would share with us?  How can we all be more kind?

why not

In all seriousness I must ask:  can anyone give me a good reason not to be kind?  It would seem to be so very obvious that kindness is the only way, so why not?

how do you spell kindness

It is probably a little different for each of us (and there is no right or wrong answer), but how do you spell kindness? H-O-M-E-M-A-D-E-S-O-U-P. Oh my!

love what you do

Don't waste your life trying to impress other people.  Do those things you love and love those things you do.

day by day

Take life day by day and be grateful for all the little things. Don’t get stressed over those things that you can’t control.

Be one

The world is filled with nice people. Some days it might be harder to find them, but if you can’t find one, then be one!

what you do for others

The wonderful entertainer Danny Thomas once said "Success in life has nothing to do with what you gain in life or accomplish for yourself.  It's what you do for others."

From Ms Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey once said "Be thankful for what you have; you'll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don't have, you will never, ever have enough."  True words!

for one’s community

In her many years, Supreme Court Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg said a lot of important things, but one that stands out for me is this quote, that I believe is so very true: "To make life a little better for people less fortunate than you, that’s what I think a meaningful life is. One lives not just for oneself but for one’s community."

like a wildfire

The wonderful Whoopi Goldberg once said "When you are kind to someone in trouble, you hope they'll remember and be kind to someone else. And it'll become like a wildfire."

universal language

Kindness is the universal language that blind people can see and the deaf can hear.  We can all relate to kindness!

Kindness during pandemic

These past two years with the COVID-19 pandemic have not been fun.  We have dealt with sickness and death, and we have seen people lost their jobs and their homes.  I think right now it is more important than ever to show our concern for others.  Reach out.  Be a friend.  Let people know that you care.  We will get through this and kindness from all of us will help!

some kind things we can do

Open the door for another person. Leave an extra-large tip for your server.  Treat someone to fresh fruit. Tell a bus or taxi driver how much you appreciate their driving. Give coffee to people on their way to work in the morning. Leave a treat or handmade note of thanks for a delivery person or mail carrier.  Sing at a nursing home. Give another driver your parking spot.  Give a bag of groceries to a homeless person. 

Treat people with kindness

Treat people with kindness. Behind every face there is a story that could use a little more love. You can be the supplier.

gratitude

Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.  

1843

The little counter on the page that keep track of these things, says that today is the 1843rd post to this blog!  Thank you for sticking with me these past five years.  Thanks too for your never-ending kindness.  Let's keep spreading it!

thinking of you

Live your life so that when your friends or your neighbors or your children think of kindness and love and fairness and integrity, they think of you.  

Kind Arnel

The wonderful music that Arnel Pineda shares at all of his performances is certainly an act of beauty, but I am told that he is also a very kind man who enjoys bringing joy to others.  He brings a LOT of joy!

mistakes happen

Have any of you ever made a mistake?  Human beings aren't perfect.  None of us are.  We do seem to hold some though to unreasonable standards.  When someone makes a mistake, it seems to me we should accept that.  Of course if they do something intentionally bad, that's another matter.  Let's be kind to each other and accept that nobody is perfect.  

be kind anyway

Surrounded by meanies?
Be kind anyway

musical kindness

How many songs are there with the word kind in the title? Now I'm speaking here of when kind is used as an adjective. As a noun (meaning sort), there are many. Tim McGraw's Humble and Kind came to mind right away.  Try A Little Kindness by Glen Campbell and Frank Sinatra's Please Be Kind would also make the list. Are there others? How about some songs that encourage kindness?

I may be wrong

I was just thinking, and I may be wrong, but there was a time when writing words like I do here every morning, would be totally unnecessary.  There was a time, and again I may be wrong, when everyone was basically kind.  Maybe it is just how I want to remember things.  Maybe it is just how I hope it will someday be once again.

Life is too short

Life is just too short, too unpredictable and too complicated. Be happy no matter what.  A smile sometimes is all you need.

Good

How much good do we see each day? 

What can we do to add to the good? 

Add good. Be kind.

turn the page

Life is like a book.  If you never turn the page, you will never know what the next chapter holds.

My Goal

It's my goal every single day to be a kinder, nicer person, and to never be the one who broke someone's heart, but to instead be the one who helped to mend it.  I will keep working on this goal day after day and try to improve.

Einstein's truth

One of humanity's greatest minds, Albert Einstein, once said "There are two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle." You don't have to be an Einstein to know that's the truth!

Is there anything better than love

Ask yourself this: What is better than love? Seriously. Can you come up with an answer? Is there anything better than love? I don't think so. We can always use more of it, as a matter of fact. There is nothing better than love! No sirree!  Nothing at all is better than love.

go sit with a stranger

Reaching out is important all the time. Today though a special effort would be in order because this is National Sit With a Stranger Day. We can never have too many friends. The most simple connection just might turn into a wonderful life-long relationship. I'm thinking of all the lonely people too. For them, making a new connection is certainly a kind thing to do. Reach out and touch someone!  Go sit with a stranger.

For the future

The earth has been here a long time and it will be around for a long time to come, BUT will it be able to sustain life? Will plants and flowers grow and fish swim in the water and birds fly through the air? Will cows and chickens, dogs and cats, all manner of life, including humans, still roam the planet?  I've been thinking a lot about this.  Climate change is real folks.  Look at the soaring temperatures.  Look at the sea life being cooked in the water.   Be kind to future generations.  We need to act.  

donuts

Today is National Cream-Filled Donut Day and my mouth is already watering. Maybe a good time to bring some donuts to work or to school or maybe just get some to share with neighbors and friends. I love Boston cream! Oh and I love chocolate cream too. Oh and then there's custard or lemon cream or nutella or maple cream. Wow! Cream-filled donuts come in so many varieties, but I suppose you could share a good old jelly donut too!

footprints

This morning I want to share some powerful words from former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt: "Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart."

Does time heal?

Yesterday, another 9/11 day of remembrances.  I find every year for the day to be a very emotional one.  Does time heal?  Perhaps.  What helps a great deal is kindness and respect.  Treat everyone in a positive manner.  Understand that we all process difficult moments in our own way and that there is no wrong way to grieve - it's a very individual thing.  We get our strength by showing love and concern for others.

remembering

Twenty years ago the day began like most others, and then terror struck.  Let us always remember the events of that day and do all we can so see that atrocities like that never happen again.  Let us work for peace and harmony.  Let us also remember the souls we lost that day.

at the end of the day

At the end of every day write down in a diary, or on your calendar the best thing that happened to you that day. It's a wonderful exercise.

Teddy Bears

National Teddy Bear Day honors the history of one of our favorite toys. My mom used to collect teddy bears, and many of hers are now with me. In 1902, President Teddy Roosevelt refused to shoot a bear cub while hunting in Mississippi. The incident made national news. Clifford Berryman published a cartoon of the event in the Washington Post and the caricature became an instant classic. That's how it began, now let's keep it going!

be proud

Don't be ashamed of how someone else sees you. Be proud of who you are. Each day add things to make you even more proud!

nothing better than love

Ask yourself this: What is better than love?  Seriously.  Money?  Jewlery?  Champagne?  Can you come up with an answer?  I think there is nothing better than love!  Let us love each other.

holiday kindness

Yes, today is a holiday.  It's also another be kind to others day.  Being kind takes no holiday, no vacation.  Being kind is a way of life that we practice every single day.

a special birthday

Today is a special birthday. No, not mine. That just happened. Today is the birthday of Arnel Pineda who is the lead singer of the rock band Journey. He also happens to be one of the kindest people in the world. Wish him well today and in his year ahead!

true relationship

A true relationship is someone who accepts your past, supports your present, and encourages your future. Be kind to yourself and to each other. Fully accept and encourage each other.

September is

September is National Blood Cancer Awareness Month, Better Breakfast Month, Self Improvement Month, National Suicide Awareness Month, Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, Little League Month, National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, Baby Safety Month, Classical Music Month, National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and National Courtesy Month.  Learn.  Be aware.  Be kind.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides

24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress,

prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.

1-800-273-8255

Courtesy Month

It’s National Courtesy Month! No, I'm not making this up. While I am always urging kindness, here we have a whole month that is especially urging that. So, show lots of courtesy all through September (and beyond)!

welcome September

Welcome September, a brand new month and more opportunities to show kindness.  Enjoy this ninth month of the year, and be kind!

No place for hate

The hate and violence in various places these past few days is quite discouraging.  I don't even understand the concept.  Love and kindness is so much more positive.  There is always room for more positive attitudes, and as far as I am concerned, there really is no place for hate.

Continuing to build the list

Every now and then, I have listed here some random acts of kindness.  Here are more:  Give toys to the children at a shelter. Volunteer to fix up an elderly couple’s home. Give a bag of groceries to a homeless person. Call an estranged family member. Leave a treat or handmade note of thanks for a delivery person or mail carrier. Mow a neighbor’s grass or sweep a neighbor’s walk.

more than ever

 Be kind.  It's always important, but now more than ever.

Behind the music

Todd Rundgren has always been one of my favorite musicians. The moment I hear the first notes of Hello It's Me, I get a lump in my throat. I remember that Rundgren once said "Music is the way I understand how to communicate now, the way that I've learned how to communicate . . . but it will eventually have to go beyond that. You see, I've realized that music is not what keeps people involved - it's the attitude behind the music."

said before

Way back when I was first on the radio, I used to close each day saying "It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice." That was likely something I had read, but I liked it, and still do. Another one that most likely was said before: "Only I can change my life. Nobody can do it for me." That too wasn't an original thought by me (no idea who said it first), but I really like it.

a job you love

Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life.  Really.

let me talk to you

Let me talk to you about hospitality or niceness or affection or helpfulness or warmth or unselfishness or benevolence or consideration or warmheartedness or friendliness or neighborliness or charitableness or gentleness or understanding or thoughtfulness or generosity or big-heartedness - in other words, kindness.  That's what this daily blog is all about.  Come join us each day and tell your friends too!

from Making Wishes

In her book Making Wishes, Richelle Goodrich says that "Kindness is a magical spell - performed by enlightened beings - meant to enchant hearts and lift weary souls that they might fly." Such a lovely way of saying it!

What else is there to say

I talk here every day about being kind.  What else is there to say?  What am I leaving out?  How do we make this world a kinder place?  What do YOU think!  I'd really love to hear your thoughts.

speak with kindness

Good words bring good feelings to the heart. Always speak with kindness. Always.

Senior Citizens

Today is Senior Citizens Day and while kindness toward everyone is something we all should always be showing, today let's make a special effort to be kind to senior citizens.  Perhaps a visit to a local nursing home or reaching out to grandparents or other older relatives would be a good way to spend the day.

hearts will always remember

Our minds won't always remember exactly what happened, but our hearts will always remember the feeling!

Joy

Feel the joy,
Be the joy.
Joy attracts joy

happiness

Happiness is a choice, not a result.  Nothing will make you happy until you choose to be happy.  No person will make you happy unless you decide to be happy.  Your happiness will not come to you.  It can only come from you.  Make yourself happy and help others discover this too.

feeling with the heart

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched, they must be felt with the heart.

joys in life

There are few joys in life that equal a good book, a good conversation, a good walk, a good smile, a good hug, or a good friend.

lift them up

Inspire someone who is having a hard time, not by lowering yourself to their sadness, but by lifting them up through your joy!

tears

Tears shed for another person are not a sign of weakness.

They are a sign of a pure heart.

Friggatriskaidekaphobia

Friggatriskaidekaphobia, fear of Friday the 13th. Many reasons for this, but especially in numerology where twelve is considered the number of completeness (12 tribes of Israel, the 12 Apostles, 12 signs of the zodiac, 12 days of Christmas, 12 hours of the clock, etc). The number thirteen is then considered a transgression, going beyond completeness. This day though doesn't have to be unlucky.  Be kind to yourself. Don't add unnecessary worry. Be kind to others too. I think we can make this a very lucky day - certainly a very kind one!

And the livin is easy

Remember that old song?  ""Summertime, and the livin is easy."  I could almost burst out singing!  That living we sing of just isn't quite as easy for everyone though.  Remember that.  Your kindness toward others can go a long way!

start with a positive thought

Always begin your day with a positive thought. No matter how tough yesterday was, a fresh opportunity to make it better awaits you today.

First thing in the morning

I may have tons of time at certain points during the day, but first thing in the morning I am pretty busy.  These days I am on zoom for about half an hour.  I write a short message here.  I check email, messages, and enjoy some breakfast.  I write a second blog (about making a difference in the world).  I am back on zoom once more.  All this before 9:30!  If you are wanting to hear from me, you will, but I just might take a few moments to get to it.  Be kind.

birthday wishes

Just a couple of weeks before my birthday and one thing that would make me very happy is more kindness. I'm serious. Such a lovely present it would be if I saw more folks caring about each other. When you are a kid your birthday wishes probably include various presents and a party and and celebrations, but that really isn't all that important to me. I'd much prefer you donated to a charity dear to me or spent some time volunteering.  Being nice to each other is such a wonderful gift!

Happiness Happens

We have a day to encourage happiness! Yup. I'm not making this up. Today is National Happiness Happens Day, so smile and be happy. Yes, it's true that there is still a lot to worry about, but there are always reasons to rejoice and recognize those wonderful moments of delight, joy, pleasure, and glee. Be kind, as always, and especially be kind to yourself. Enjoy the happy moments and make more of them happen!

never-ending kindness

Sometimes kindness comes unexpectedly from folks far away that we barely know. That happened to me last night, and it wasn't just one incident. The same person show concern for me over and over and some very nice actions followed. The beginning of a great friendship with this never-ending kindness actually brought tears to my eyes. I won't go into detail, but this made me very happy.

gratitude

Showing gratitude is one of the simplest yet most powerful things humans can do for each other.

Wonderful daughter

In the hallway of my apartment building I ran into a young woman whom I thought I had seen from a distance earlier.  "Are you a new neighbor of mine?" I asked.  No.  She was checking on her mom.  We chatted for a while because this women seemed so nice, it was almost impossible to believe.  She was coming over every two hours to put drops in her mother's eyes.  Normally she came a bit less but still was around a lot helping with chores, getting groceries, and just keeping Mom company.  I think that's pretty wonderful!

Quote

Here's a quote for you on this Friday morning as we prepare for our weekend.  I do not know the source.   "Distance does not separate people, silence does."

who they are

Love someone for who they are,
not who you want them to be.

I love August

I love August.  Last year and this are different for sure, but the nice weather is still here during this month and I know tons of people with birthdays and anniversaries.  One of them was yesterday.  Two are on the same day as mine later in the month.  I could easily celebrate all month long.  So many bonus reasons for being kind.

friendship

I was told that the average American has sixteen friends, three of which are extremely close. How about you? Today is National Friendship Day and I'm reminded also that the best way to have friends is to be a friend. Reach out with kindness, and be someone's friend.

End of the month kindness

July comes to a close today.  Was it a kind month for you?  Were you a kind person this month?  I have an idea.  Let's go out an be especially kind today as this month ends.  Let us all keep happy and upbeat and smile and share our joy.  Let's spread the kindness all over the place!

your kindness toward me

Oh my! The past few weeks have not been my best, but I am so very grateful for your kindness toward me. Hopefully my health will improve. (I'm going to be wearing a heart monitor for several weeks just to be sure). It has been amazing though how many people have reached out with kind words of encouragement and support. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Why wait?

Do you have a friend or relative that you just adore?  Have you ever told them so?  Why wait?  How about when someone gives you a gift.  Let them know right then that you appreciate it.  This is true also with your coworkers, fellow students, those who may work for you, even the bus driver that picks you up each day.  If you have really good feelings about them.  Let them know.  Why wait?

Birthdays

Birthdays can be a lot of fun.  When I glanced at the calendar a moment ago I realized that mine is just a month away.  Oh that means my friends Desmond, Vincent, and Cecilia will be celebrating their birthdays today.  When were you born?  Happy birthday to all when your special day comes!

Effects of COVID-19 pandemic

COVID-19 has affected day to day life for the past year and a half and it is still with us. In the beginning, we didn't really know what to do. Even now we don't have all the answers, but we do have a vaccine and we know that masking helps. The impacts of COVID-19 in daily life are extensive and have far reaching consequences, but we need to all do our part. Be kind to yourself and to others. Follow the protocols. Science is real. COVID-19 is real. Get vaccinated. Wear a mask. Make a difference.

The Kindest of All

I'm sure people have done kind things for you in the past, right?  It feels good.  That's why I like encouraging kindness. Think for a moment about all those wonderful things that folks have done for you in the past. What was the kindest of all?

It makes me feel good

There are so many reasons for being kind.  At the top of my list:  It makes me feel good.  When people are kind to me, it makes me feel good and when I am kind to others, it makes me feel good.  It works both ways!

so very thankful

Every single day I have things in my life that I am thankful for.  I'm thankful for the opportunity to rise and write something here.  I'm thankful for those of you reading these words.  I'm thankful if I have influenced folks in any way for the better.  Above all though I am thankful for all the blessings of this life.  How great it is to be living here in this day.

Happy Friday!

Hey everybody!  Happy Friday!  How are you doing?  I hope you are all feeling well and enjoying yourselves.  (Yes, you can still enjoy yourself even in a pandemic).  Go out and make it a great day.  Make it great for someone else too!

It's late

There is a daily pattern for me and it includes writing this right around 7am. I then give some thought to another blog I write, eat breakfast, answer emails, and then produce that other blog. Today I found myself waking up after 7! Oh my! I am a bit behind. There is always time though to be kind. Let that kindness shine in all you do!

Be kind today

The daily message of this blog is a simple one.  It is one that I hope will lead us all to a better life.  Be kind today.  Kindness is one of the greatest gifts we can ever give.

kind ideas

Every now and then I've listed things we can all do to show kindness toward others. Here are some more: Let the person behind you in the grocery store go ahead of you in line. Invite someone new for dinner, either in your home or in a restaurant. Give toys to the children at a shelter. Say nice things randomly to friends (or even strangers) on social media. Buy some bottles of water and randomly hand them out to strangers on the street.  Volunteer at a senior center or a hospital.  What else?  Help us come up with some other ideas!

Don't let it disappear!

Just when you began to think that nobody is the world is kind anymore, along comes someone to prove you wrong, and boy is that great.  I actually don't ever think that kindness is ALL gone, but there are times when it seems to be disappearing.  Don't let it disappear!

This week ahead

This week ahead I'm hoping will be a good one.  We can't control everything in our lives of course, but we can always be kind.

beautiful day!

Yesterday was an absolutely day!  I love looking all around at the wonders of nature.  It's cool when you notice other people enjoying it too.  Hopefully today is going to be just as beautiful.

Reaching for the stars

As a fellow broadcaster, the great Casey Kasem was always an inspiration to me. It wasn't just his talent though that inspired, it was the many profound things he said, especially his signature saying "Keep your feet on the ground and keep reaching for the stars." It's always good advice to keep reaching for the stars!

National Give Something Away Day

Today is National Give Something Away Day. Really. I think this is a marvelous idea too! Most of us have the benefit of having more than we need to live our lives. National Give Something Away Day offers a chance to share some of our bounties.  What a kind thing to do too!

YOUR kindness

I could easily go on and out speaking here of being kind, 

but I would also love to hear about your kindness.  

Seriously.  

Using the comments section below, tell us about a kind 

thing you regularly do or you are trying to do, or maybe 

some suggestions for all of us to do!

Whole heart

"Life is going to give you just what you put into it. Put your whole heart in everything you do."

-words of Vivian Baxter

Oops!

I'm not sure if this is an oops! moment or just one of those things, but my apologies for this very late post.  (Sometimes my heart doesn't do what it's supposed to, and so last night there was a trip to the ED and they kept me in hospital overnight.  I just got home a little while ago and should be fine).  I'll write at the usual time tomorrow.  Until then, be kind!

Cheer Up The Lonely

Today is National Cheer Up The Lonely Day.  Yup there is actually a day set aside for that!  (Of course I think it would be wonderful to do every single day).  There are lots of ways to do this.  Maybe we could start by calling some folks who live alone, just to say hello.

Kind in the heat

When it's really hot outside, it can be easier to get frustrated and even lose your temper, but a kind smile can help.  It's already gotten hot in my neck-of-the-woods, and it's more important than ever to be kind to each other.  Pop a few bottles of water in the freezer, and bring them with you as you go about your day.  Most folks will be delighted it you give them one of these bottles, with the water still nice and cold!  Oh my!

I intend

It is a Friday, the ninth day of July 2021, and today I intend to be kind. I intend to be kind every single day. Sometimes when something bad happens or someone is yelling at me, I may need to step away for a moment or take a deep breathe. Sometimes I might even want to scream. At no point though do I ever want to repay someone else with anything other than kindness and I intend to be true to this attitude always.

Happy Thursday!

Another glorious day!  Where I am the sun is already streaming through the windows, after a nice bit of overnight rain.  Happy Thursday everyone!  I know this is going to be a great day.  Be kind to each other!

All things break

Everyone has tough days from time to time. I am reminded of some marvelous words from L.R. Knost, She gets right to it saying "Do not be dismayed by the brokenness of the world.  All things break. And all things can be mended. Not with time, as they say, but with intention. So go. Love intentionally, extravagantly, unconditionally."

Hey there!

Hello!  Hey there!  How ya doing?  I hope things are well for you.  Smile.  Try to be happy even if you are in the midst of some difficulties.  Share your smile freely.  Share you joy too.  And be sure as you go through your day to spread some kindness!

tons of great things

Relaxing and enjoying nature is often a great time to think about all the good things that come your way.  I am so fortunate to have tons of great things in my life - not just now, but tons of great things always.  How wonderful is that?  I think that's what makes me want to share these great things.  Of course every time I share my great things, I get a whole lot more back!

Quoting Jefferson

Remembering today those very important words of Thomas Jefferson: "We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness."  Please note that we are not guaranteed to be happy, but only to pursue it.  Kindness will help us on the way.

hot dogs, hamburgers, and potato salad

Growing up I remember those wonderful summertime picnics with hot dogs, hamburgers, and potato salad and maybe some icecream or watermelon.  Those are what I might call kind foods.  (Pizza could go on that list, but it isn't usually eaten at picnics).  Do you have any kind summertime memories from your youth?

This weekend

This weekend is going to be incredible.  You believe me, right?  Think positive.  Let us all set out to be kinder than ever this weekend.  Yeah, that's the ticket!

You're adopted

Former NFL player and activist Colin Kaepernick says "My parents told me from the time I can remember that, 'Yeah, you're adopted. But this is your family.' I can remember my mom, she tells me this story: when I was little, I was looking at her, and I was like, 'Why isn't my skin the same color as yours?' 'Oh, you're adopted, but I wish I had pretty brown skin like you,' said Mom." Wow!  Thanks for sharing this with us Colin.  

What a month!

June ends today.  What a month this has been too.  Oh my!  I have been busy.  I hope that you have been busy too.  Even more, I hope that you have shared kindness and brought some good to our world.  Tomorrow starts a brand new month and more opportunities.  Be safe.  Be well.  Be kind.

Impossible

The great Muhammad Ali said and did many thing that have inspired me.  Here is an example.  He said "Impossible is just a big word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live in the world they've been given than to explore the power they have to change it. Impossible is not a fact. It's an opinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It's a dare. Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing." 

come naturally

 This isn't difficult to any degree.  It isn't very hard at all.  Being kind should just come naturally.  It's not something you need to think out or make great plans for.  It just is.

care

There was a time when everybody cared about everyone else.  Really.  I'm not taking about being nosy.  I'm talking about genuine concern for other people, even if you don't know them.  That seems to have disappeared, and that makes me sad.  If you have a big family or a lot of friends, it might not seem like a big deal, but for others it does matter.  What a wonderful feeling it is to know that someone cares about you.  It also really feels good to be the caring one.

This is a kindness-only zone

Let's not be uncharitable, mean-spirited, mean, uncaring, cruel, unpleasant, nasty, vindictive, disagreeable, vicious, spiteful, malicious, unsympathetic, callous, unfeeling, or anything else that is negative.  Let kindness be the only way for us.  Let positive feeling and a happy spirit guide our way.  This is a kindness-only zone!

Inspiration

We all find inspiration from somewhere - our parents, God, perhaps a teacher or close friend. I am inspired by so many people, and some of that inspiration is what got me talking so much about kindness. I have a wonderful friend Toan who inspires me in every single thing he does. He has such a zest for life and enjoying it to the fullest. There's a celebrity who greatly inspire me too. Her name is Ellen and the kind and generous things she does are simply amazing. I'm so lucky to be inspired by so many, and at the top of the list is my late mother. Wow! What a great lady!

Unkind vs Kind

Have you ever had unkind things said about you? How did that make you feel? Now, take a moment to think about when kind things were instead said about you. I'll bet that felt a whole lot better, huh? If we all learned this simple lesson, we could make every day so much better.

Echoes of kind words

Thinking of the long show business career of Marlene Dietrich, you might not easily be able to quote her, but I find one tiny sentence of hers to me a great anthem for our lives. Dietrich said "Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless."

The Duke

My memory of actor John Wayne, "The Duke," is that he was a big man with a big heart. Despite being very conservative, there were things he said that have made a positive impact on me. One such saying: "Tomorrow is the most important thing in life. Comes into us at midnight very clean. It's perfect when it arrives and it puts itself in our hands. It hopes we've learned something from yesterday."

kindest day of the year

What is the kindest day of the year? Many folks might say Christmas or Thanksgiving or some other holiday.  How about today? Why can't today be the kindest.  We can make this happen. Start spreading that kindness!  I say this all the time, but it really is true.

Fathers

Father’s Day began in 1910, two years after the first official celebration of Mother’s Day in the United States. It is the third Sunday in June each year (today). Of course we should always honor our parents, but today, be especially kind to your father.

Juneteenth words

Remembering on this Juneteenth, these words from Dr Martin Luther King Jr: "If the cruelties of slavery could not stop us, the opposition we now face will surely fail. Because the goal of America is freedom, abused and scorned tho’ we may be, our destiny is tied up with America’s destiny."

Fair treatment

EVERY single human being deserves to be treated fairly. There are no exceptions. Even if you are a criminal, you still deserve fair treatment. Folks going about their daily lives should not have to endure hate speech and everyone should be address by the name and the pronouns that they identify with. Doing anything else is not only unkind, it is hateful and mean.

Simple message

 It's a pretty simple message here every day:  be kind.  

What was I thinking?

Did you ever sit down and start to write something, but then your mind goes blank?  What was I thinking?  Have I run out of things to say?  Is there not even one more thing to be said about kindness?  Oh my!  You know the answer of course.  There is always more to say because there is always more to do, until kindness becomes a way of life for us all!

being happy

Being happy does not mean that everything is perfect. What it means is that you've decided to look beyond the imperfections.

How was your weekend?

Happy Monday everyone!  How was your weekend?  I hope you had a enjoyable time and I hope everyone now has a great week ahead.  Wherever you go and whatever you do, remember to be kind!

In appreciation of all those teachers

Letha Sines is someone I will never forget.  She was my sixth grade teacher and gave us so much!  My aunt, who later became a teacher also, was a student of Miss Sines too.  Even my sister had the great experience of this wonderful teacher, although by her year in sixth grade, she had become Mrs Letha Munson.  I fondly remember Lou Ella Gridley who taught me in fifth grade too, and Mrs Doyle from the fourth grade.  I appreciate them all, and my numerous friends and relatives who went into teaching.  Such a giving profession!

Loving Day

Loving Day might not be exactly what you think. Yes, it revolves around affection and relationships, but its history is more deeply rooted hate and discrimination. It involves an interracial couple, Mildred and Richard Loving, who were married in Washington in 1958. In Virginia though, where they made their home, it was "unlawful for any white person in the state to marry any save a white person." The landmark Supreme Court case Loving v. Virginia in 1967 ruled that state bans on interracial marriage were unconstitutional under the 14th Amendment. Something to indeed celebrate on this Saturday!

spread the kindness

Let me talk to you a bit about niceness or affection or helpfulness or hospitality or warmth or friendliness or unselfishness or benevolence or consideration or warmheartedness or neighborliness or charitableness or gentleness or understanding or thoughtfulness or generosity or big-heartedness - in other words, kindness. That's what this daily blog is all about. Spread the word, and spread the kindness.  

How you make people feel

Just about everything I ever heard from the incredible Maya Angelou, makes me feel good. It's so appropriate that she is the one who said "I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."

First time visitor

If you are a first time visitor, I do hope you will come back.  This daily blog is about kindness and how we can be kind to each other.  I'm not an expert by any means.  I have no special training that would lead me in this direction.  I'm just someone who wants to share the joys of love and kindness and I invite you not only to read the words here, but to share yours as well, by commenting in the space below.

Besties

Celebrating National Best Friends Day on this Tuesday.  Do you have a bestie?  Do something extra nice for them today.  Some folks might not be so fortunate to have a best friend.  Reach out to them today too!

The Fortune Cookie

My fortune cookie said "All great things had small beginnings." Indeed. We want a better world. We want a better life for our children. We want a more kind and more caring humankind. "Oh it is so difficult. It's too big for me!" So often we can become discouraged. What can one person do after all? Well we can change the world. We can make things better. Even if we are the only one at the beginning, we just need to remember that all great things had small beginnings.

Cancer Survivors

Today is National Cancer Survivor’s Day. Be especially kind to those battling various cancers and those who care for them. Many of the most commonly diagnosed cancers have ten-year survival of 50% or more, which is so much better than years ago. We must continue the fight though and wipe out all cancers. Cancer took both my grandmother and mother. I know many though who have beaten their cancers, and today I am thinking of them.

couldn't care more

I have no idea who said this, but it isn't my own original thought. (I have searched, and can't find it, but I am certain I read it somewhere or heard someone else say it). "In a world full of people who couldn't care less, be someone who couldn't care more." Yeah, it's not my original thought, but I certainly agree with it!

Corgi Day

Today International Corgi Day, which celebrates both corgi breeds and corgi-mixes and brings people together through their love of long dogs with short legs to give to dogs in need. Be kind to the corgis and all animals. Oh and be kind to each other too of course!

From the mouth of Billy Porter

During this Pride Month, I'm thinking of these inspiring words from Billy Porter: "Just by the nature of making the choice to be true to who I am, I'm political. Sometimes that's all you need to do: Show up and be black, gay and Christian in America and actually say it out loud. And refuse to let anything or anybody take that away from you."

Are they stars?

Look up into the sky, and think about this wonderful Eskimo Proverb: “Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.”

Equality for everyone

June is LGBTQ Pride Month. You might be thinking things have improved so much over the years that there is no longer any discrimination against those who identify as lesbian gay bisexual transgender queer or questioning. Wrong. There are more legal protections in some places, but at the same time there are new laws that discriminate and target the LGBTQ community. Equality should be a reality for everyone. Nobody should have to live in a closet. Nobody should have to hide from anyone. And nobody should be discriminated against because of who they are.

No worries

Have you noticed that retails employees don't say "you're welcome" these days? Most of the time it seems to be "no worries," which wouldn't bother me if I were Australian, but I'm not. I'd have no issue if they said "my pleasure." I might even prefer it. It's all about courtesy. "No worries" just seems way too indifferent to me. In courtesy, it's always better to take the high road.  "I'm so glad I didn't cause a problem or worry you," should not be what you are thinking.  Instead I want to feel glad I was there.  Wow!  She said it was her pleasure.  How nice! 

change for the better

Waking up to news of yet another shooting and several stories of hate.  Oh my!  Yes kindness is important, but we need a whole lot more.  We need to make some big changes.  The hate has to go.  We need to care about each other.  I know we can do it.  I truly believe we can change for the better.

All by myself

Does "all by myself" work for you?  I know there are people who thrive on being all alone.  I am not one of them and I know that is true for many.  Have you ever felt lonely?  Some people are lonely all the time. What can we do about that?  Well, a phone call might help or a card in the mail.  A short visit can help usually be a good thing. We each have it in our power to help cut down on the loneliness out there.  Even folks who are new to town and don't know many people yet, can have lonely moments.

A wonderful kind lady

Whenever I see someone being obviously kind to someone else, it makes my heart sing.  Last night I encountered such a person.  I swear, kindness should be her middle name.  This wonderful kind lady was smiling and happy and doing nice things for several people, not expecting anything at all in return.  Oh my!  We need more like her.

Disney dream

The great film producer, animator, voice actor, and movie pioneer Walt Disney only lived to be 65 years old, but he accomplished so much. Whenever I need any sort of encouragement, all I have to do is look at his brilliant life.  Disney once said "If you can dream it, you can do it."

Guidelines

Trust before you love. 

Know before you judge. 

Commit before you promise. 

Forgive before you forget. 

Appreciate before you regret.

keep those cards and letters coming

How often do you receive mail?  I don't mean email or texts, but actual physical paper inside an envelope that is delivered by the Postal Service right to your door.  Folks don't do it nearly as much as they used to, and that's a shame.  It's such a kind thing to let someone know you are thinking of them and it's so nice to open a card from a friend!

special kind things to do

Kindness is something we do all the time, but some special kind acts?  Here's a few ideas:  Send dessert to another table when eating out.  Donate your old eyeglasses so someone else can use them.  Help a parent with their baby stroller.  Talk to the shy person who's sitting by themselves at a party.  Help someone with heavy packages.  Let the other person have the parking space, even if you arrived first.  Other ideas?

1616

There is a counter that tells me how many entries I have here for this blog.  Usually I don't take notice, but yesterday it somehow caught my eye.  1616 it said.  Oh my!  With 1,616 posts, I must have said everything you could possibly say about kindness.   WRONG!  There is always more.  I can be more kind.  We can be more kind.  The world can be more kind.

weekend thoughts

As this week comes to a close, how are things going for you?  Have you been kind this week?  Have others been kind to you?  Think for a moment of the kindest moment in this week just ending.  How did it make you feel?  Wouldn't it be great to experience that all the time?

Kindness to animals

Kindness is not something that is restricted to other people. We should all be kind to the environment, and especially be kind to animals. Look into the loving eyes of a cat or a puppy. You can see in an instant that kindness is what the deserve!

too late

Ralph Waldo Emerson certainly had a way with words! His religious views were often considered radical during his lifetime. I can relate to so many things he said though, like this: "You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late."  Yes, I posted this quote before, but I really like it!

living by our words

Writing here every day about kindness is not enough. I have to practice what I preach. I have to BE kind. In the words of John F. Kennedy, "As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them."

Beautiful lawns and gardens

The groundskeepers where I live do excellent work. The lawns are always exceptional and the flowers and trees so incredibly beautiful. Yesterday, one of the men was packing up tools at the end of the day and I complimented him on the way they had just changed the plants and the rocks surrounding the parking area. "Oh you're too kind." he said. Was that kindness? I was just speaking the truth. Maybe we should all do that a bit more often.

where everyone feels included

Let's eliminate all forms of discrimination. On this International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, may we renew our commitment to inclusion and advocate diversity, integrity and equality where everyone feels included, respected and valued.  Let us be kind to each other and welcome all of our sisters and brothers.

Be one

There are so many good people out there in the world. If you're having trouble finding one, then be one!

Trailblazers

Yesterday I learned of the passing of Fred L. Townson, a community activist in San Francisco, and another activist in that city, Felicia Elizondo is in her last hours.  To say that I am sad would be an understatement, but I am also happy - happy to have known them, and happy for all the wonderful things they have done.  They were trailblazers.  They were also very kind.  Saying goodbye is never easy, but I am so glad they came my way.

Early beginnings

It was a children's novel by Esther Forbes that first made me aware of standing up for others and trying to make a difference.  That book, Johnny Tremain, had a message that will stay with me forever.  Learning about love and kindness came earlier, largely from my mom and dad and a kind priest who always believed in me.  That is one of my guiding lights as I write this brief message each morning.

Happiness and success

I believe it was Albert Schweitzer who said "Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success." I was just thinking about that. How happy are you?  How successful are you?

beyond the plateaus

Bruce Lee lived a very short life, but it was an inspiring life. He said so many profound things. One of my favorites is "If you always put limit on everything you do, physical or anything else. It will spread into your work and into your life. There are no limits. There are only plateaus, and you must not stay there, you must go beyond them."

Tuneful Tuesday

I woke up hearing Melissa Etheridge sing Tuesday Morning, and then for some reason I started thinking of other "Tuesday" songs. There are a lot. I came up with 25, but there are probably more.  How many can you think of?  I wonder what day has the most songs written about it.  Anyway, have a tuneful Tuesday, and as always be kind!

It's inside

Inside every one of us is the ability to love others, to bring joy, and to be kind. The great poet and essayist Ralph Waldo Emerson reminded us of this when he said "What lies behind you and what lies in front of you, pales in comparison to what lies inside of you."

Mother's Day thought

On this Mother's Day, here is something that actress Sophia Loren once said: “When you are a mother, you are never really alone in your thoughts. A mother always has to think twice, once for herself and once for her child.”

Let's get rid of hate

Love and kindness is always the way.  I actually think it should be the only way.  Sometimes it's extremely frustrating to see so much negativity and hatred.  I don't understand it.  Let's get rid of hate.  Let's show respect for others.  Come on!  We can do it!

Be healthy

Kindness can relate directly to your overall health.  A healthy lifestyle is not just about what we eat.  It is also what we consume emotionally, mentally and spiritually.  Have a healthy weekend everyone!

Check your memory

Think back. Do you remember a kind act that someone did for you? How did it make you feel? It doesn't have to be a huge event - it doesn't have to require any money or gifts. Kindness is a way of life for many of us, and certainly you have been the recipient at some time. Check your memory. Didn't it feel great? Wouldn't you want to share that feeling with others?

Lincoln words

The sixteenth President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln said some terribly inspiring things like "I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him." Lincoln also said "I dream of a place and a time where America will once again be seen as the last best hope of earth."

Size doesn't matter

There are those who think that when you speak of kindness, you are referring to some huge lavish extravagant action, but that really isn't the case.  Size doesn't matter at all.  In fact it's the little things that mean so very much - the smile or the nod hello.  The daily niceties of life are the foundation of kindness.

be careful with your words

Something to think about:  a  tongue has no bones, yet it is strong enough to break a heart. Be careful with your words.

Love on a two-way street

Don't they love me anymore?  Oh my!  Did you ever think about friends or relatives with that question, because you never or rarely hear from them anymore?  Ask yourself one more question:  when did they last hear from you?  It really is a two-way street.  If we want so desperately to hear from them and to be included in their lives, it would seem to me we should be including them in ours!

The May Pole

I remember back when I was little (perhaps a kinder and gentler time) when we danced around a Maypole on the first day of May. Poet Jonathan Swift describes a Maypole this way:

Deprived of root, and branch, and rind,

Yet flowers I bear of every kind:

And such is my prolific power,

They bloom in less than half an hour;

Dishonesty will stare honesty out

A dishonest politician?  Really?  This makes me think of these words from Charles Dickens: "I have known a vast quantity of nonsense talked about bad men not looking you in the face. Don’t trust that conventional idea. Dishonesty will stare honesty out of countenance any day in the week, if there is anything to be got by it."

foodstuff

There are a lot of canned food drives at this time of year, so get involved in one.  Donate food or help collect!  If your community has a food bank or a meal program for low income people, volunteers are always appreciated.  Some of us are blessed with food while others go hungry.  Nobody should have to go hungry.  One of the kindest things a person can do is simply sharing their food.

Guide dogs

Today is International Guide Dog Day, a great time to take a moment and thank the dogs who are such lifesavers to those who need their service and show support the many wonderful guide dog and service dog organizations who train and place these guide animals.  They truly make a difference.

what's the message

Hey everybody!  What's the message?  You should know by now.  It's really pretty simple.  Be kind, now and always.

The niceness

I remember when I was little seeing the niceness of the spring plants poking up through the snow.  I remember the hyacinth plants that I loved for both their beauty and that wonderful smell.  I remember how nice the changing of the seasons made folks feel.  That was when I was little in Upstate New York.  I don't seem to see the niceness as much anymore.  Why is that?

why are you doing it now?

If you say your job is something you "don't plan on doing forever," I just have to ask you a simple question:  Why are you doing it now?

Who said?

I love this saying:  "No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted."  I totally believe it.  I searched to see who said it and found unknown as well as Aesop.  Therefore, I can't say for sure who these words belong to, but like I said, I totally believe it!

A simple phone call

Yesterday morning the phone rang, and I was delighted to hear the voice of a friend I haven't spoken to in a couple of years.  (We have emailed and messaged, but this was our first time speaking to each other).  It made my day!  Something so simple and so kind - a phone call.  Kindness doesn't have to be complex.

Tell me a story

Dozens of times I've said that I would love to hear from you, and it's true.  I'll be you have some amazing stories.  Share some.  Tell us you kindest memories.  Come on.  Tell me a story

Yesterday

Yesterday we saw accountability for a crime.  We don't often see that.  In fact, in this regard, we seldom see that.  Yesterday we saw many breathe a sigh of relief.  We saw a glimmer of hope for a better future where we just might finally get rid of some of the hatred and prejudice.  Yesterday afternoon I cried, but I was happy.  Somebody finally gets it!  Sometimes you feel like you are shouting to the walls and nobody seems to care.  Yesterday was different though.  There is so much more that needs to be done, but yesterday was a beginning.

4/20 is special

4/20 is special to me

no, it's not THAT!

it was my nana's birthday

I will always remember

such a sweet kind lady she was!

weekend report

How was your weekend?  Was it filled with kindness?  Tell us about it.  Your weekend report might be just the thing we need to get things rolling on this Monday.

Hold the door

Remember when folks always opened a door for a woman?  How about when people see someone else coming and keep the door open for you?  Remember?  It doesn't seem to happen as much as it once did.  Something as simple as holding the door open can make someone's day.  Such an easy kind act!

Remembering Philip

He played a supporting role with grace.  Their marriage lasted for 73 years.  Today, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh will be laid to rest.  Whether or not you support the monarchy and whether or not you like the British Royal Family, we all should respect his long life, his abiding love, and the many who now miss him.  Amazing doesn't even begin to say it.  May he rest in peace.

Message for April 16th

Message for April 16th:  Be kind.  (of course that is also the message all this weekend and every single day)!

Spreading it

Someone thanked me for spreading kindness.  Do I do that?  I just try to encourage the behavior that I would like to encounter, and yes, I love it when folks are kind to me.  If we all like it, we can all do it too, and the spreading is very easy.  Being kind just comes naturally!

Pie

Can you bake a cherry pie?  How about an apple one?  How about baking one for someone else - or maybe some bread or cake?  One of the kindest things you can do is to give a nice freshly baked item to someone.  Yum!

to laugh

Peanuts cartoon creator Charles Schulz, was a very inspiring man. One of the things I remember he said was "If I were given the opportunity to present a gift to the next generation, it would be the ability for each individual to learn to laugh at himself." Indeed. Thank you Mr Schulz.

miracles

I don't know a lot about the kindness of Albert Einstein, but I do know of his wisdom. This is one of the most inspiring things he said: "There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle."

Bright light

Even when worries are many and things seem dark, there can still be a bright light of hope!  Be that bright light!

the kindness of that guy over there

Did you expect the man you passed to smile and nod hello?  Did you expect the little boy in the park to offer you one of the candies his mom had just given him?  Did you expect your next door neighbor to sweep off your sidewalk this morning?  The kindness of that guy over there might be unexpected, but it sure is nice.

The Present

One of my favorite saying, are the wise words of the late former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt: "Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery and today is a gift; that's why they call it the present."

teaching our kids

Some kind advice: Let's not teach our children to be rich. Instead, let's educate them to be happy, so when they grow up they will know the value of things, not the price.

In other words

Think of some other words that describe kindness. Here are a few: good will, helpfulness, indulgence, goodness, hospitality, humanity, patience, grace, serviceability, solicitousness, tact, and  thoughtfulness.  Also graciousness, magnanimity, cordiality, benevolence, courtesy, decency, sweetness, good intention, altruism, tenderness, and affection.  Oh and also charity, understanding, unselfishness, amiability, beneficence,  forbearance, clemency, gentleness, and consideration.

Sooner or later

Yesterday I learned that one of the sweetest, dearest people I have ever known passed away last week.  She had advancing dementia, and I believe there were some other health issues, so it shouldn't have come as a shock, but it did bring sadness.  She was so very kind too.  I could easily model this blog after her.  Our world is so much better off because this dear woman came our way.

The little bit of love that I sow

Priest and theologian Henri Nouwen, put forth some great questions when he asked "Did I offer peace today? Did I bring a smile to someone's face? Did I say words of healing? Did I let go of my anger and resentment? Did I forgive? Did I love?" Father Nouwen said "These are the real questions. I must trust that the little bit of love that I sow now will bear many fruits, here in this world and the life to come."

rude behavior

I am not a fan of rude behavior.  Nope.  I am not a fan at all.  There seems to be more and more of it too.  Now kindness is not the opposite of rudeness, but if someone is being rude, it would be impossible for them to also be kind.  Let's show courtesy to everyone, and kindness too!

Unforgetable

We always remember the good stuff, right?  I can remember those wonderful moments when folks did really kind things for me, and I also remember when I witnessed their kind acts toward others.  You know what?  I can also remember the reaction to things I have done for others.  it might have given them joy, but I think it gave me even greater joy seeing their happiness.  That is truly unforgettable.

In troubled times

Racial tensions, mass shootings, the pandemic, a slowed-down economy - so many things in the news that give us fear.  In troubled times it is even more important to be kind to one another.  Let's reach out and show love to others - even those strangers we have never even met.

Don't be a fool

Today is All Fools' Day or April Fools, and while a good laugh is always fun, remember it shouldn't be at someone else's expense.  Some things should never be joked about like coming out, murder or suicide. or a life-threatening illness, for example.  In the midst f this pandemic, that is certainly another off limits subject.  Have fun today, but don't be a fool.

Because of who you are

Show kindness to everyone!  Make no exception.  Do it not because of who they are, but do it because of who YOU are!

keep on

Some days may be more difficult than others.  This pandemic certainly isn't making it easy for any of us.  We need to keep on going.  We need to continue being kind.  Kindness really does help.

Inspirational words

I have always been moved by these inspirational words from Helen Keller: "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart."

Kind bars

You have probably heard of kind bars.  They are healthy snacks - energy bars, and have become quite popular.  I'm not promoting them (although I should - they not only taste good, but are good for you), but a funny image just popped into my head.  Instead of thinking of a supplemental bar containing cereals, nuts and such, I was picturing that type of bar where folks go for a cocktail, but instead of libations the bartenders dispense kindness and various ways.  Oh wait!  That might describe this blog.  WE are a kind bar!

Good and bad

There is good and there is bad.  I suppose it has always been that way and always will be (even though I don't understand why there should be bad), but can we at least try to have more of the good?  I have said this over and over and it will always be true - love and kindness is the best way to go.  Always.  No exceptions.  Let's do all we can to spread more kindness!

For Mom

Yesterday a lovely lady who lives in the town where my mom is buried, stopped by Mom's final resting place. She cleaned the marker, added a small pot of miniature daffodils and a colorful little stuffed bear (Mom used to collect teddy bears), and took pictures to send me. (I live far away). It was only three months before Mom died that this very kind lady met her. It fills my heart with joy knowing such wonderful people exist.

Size doesn't matter

Some folks think size matters.  It doesn't.  It doesn't have to be big.  It need not cost you any money too.  Some of the kindest things we can do are simply being there for someone else and showing that you care.

JOY

Mother Teresa was such a kind person, such a joyful person, such a loving person - it's no wonder she has been declared a saint.  She once said "Joy is prayer; joy is strength: joy is love; joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls."
 

Again!

Another mass shooting.  More lives lost.  This has to end.  Violence and hate should not be in our lives.  We need to see the opposite.  We need to see mass kindness.  We need to see people coming together for good and positive reasons.  We need love.

Say no to hate

You cannot be a kind person if you spend your time hating others.  Kind people stand up against hate and know that there is a better way.  There is never a good time to hate someone for who they are because we are all created in the same way and all are deserving of love and respect.  Always say no to hate and yes to love!

I love you

Let me say it again - I love you.  You may not know who I am or anything at all about me, but I love you.  If people can hate for no reason, than I can love for no reason.

From Arnold Schwarzenegger

Some encouraging words from Arnold Schwarzenegger:  "You can't reason with people blinded by hate. They hate the power of the individual. They hate the progress of women. They hate the religious freedom of others. They hate the liberating breeze of democracy. But ladies and gentlemen, their hate is no match for America's decency."

I agree with Dr King

I agree with Dr Martin Luther King, Jr who said "I have decided to stick with love.  Hate is too great a burden to bear."  

wise words

"Fighting ignorance with ignorance will get us nowhere.  Sharing our own pain by painting another group of people with stereotypes is NOT the way." -Jeremy Lin

Stand Against Hate

Every morning I wake to more news of anti-Asian hate.  Someone said they were tired of my always talking about racism.  Well imagine how tired some people are of EXPERIENCING it.  It's disgusting.  We can end it, but it often seems like nobody cares.  I'm urging you to not only be kind to others, but to help put an end to all this bigotry.  Lets all take a stand against hate.

Do you believe in magic?

 If magic really does exist, I am convinced we know it better by a different name:  kindness.

Have any kind words?

Happy Monday!  Midway through our third month of the year, I am overflowing with kind thoughts, but was wondering this morning about other folks.  Do you have any kind words that you would like to share?  Kindly add them in the comments section below, so that others may benefit!  Thanks for your kindness.

love with no strings

We all need to love more freely.  Love should come with no strings attached.  Don’t say "I love you" expecting to hear it back. Say it to make sure they know!

A smile from Christie

Model Christie Brinkley knows a thing or two about smiling, so when you said "Share your smile with the world. It's a symbol of friendship and peace," you know that she knows that to be true!

Kindness always

It's simple.  It really is.  No matter what, no matter when - kindness always.  We need to get more and more people on board with this.  Think of how much better the world will be!

March acts of kindness

Here are a few random kindness suggestions for this month:   As you go about your day, pick up trash.  Remember the bereaved with phone calls, cards, plants or flowers, and food. Send a gift anonymously to a friend. Bring flowers to work and share them with coworkers. Share your smile generously. Donate to a charity if you can afford it. Say only positive things on social media today.  Clean graffiti from neighborhood walls and buildings. Call an estranged family member.

Inspire people

Inspire people.  Make the day happen when someone says "Because of you I didn't give up"  Is there someone who has been an inspiration to you?  Be that person for others.

Kinder than yesterday

Am I a kinder person than I was yesterday?  Do I show more warmth and affection toward others? Am I unselfish?  Is there love and consideration in my behavior?  How thoughtful am I?  None of us is perfect of course, but I try each day to be kind toward everyone - not always the easiest of tasks!

Just another day

Today is the favorite day of the week for many people. Why? It's just another day, right? Nope.  Some folks live in the moment and make every single day special.  They choose to be happy and to share that happiness.  Yes, there can be difficult moments.  We have had a LOT of them this year, but don't think of today as just another day.  Think of it as another opportunity to share kindness with others and to be kind to yourself!  

Last night

Last night I had one of those lovely encounters where someone showed that he cared.   I really can't go into details out of respect for privacy, but I love to witness such kindness.  It can reinforce your faith in humanity.  This wonderful singer/songwriter/musician can easily add one more description:  caring person.

LOVE

 there 

   is

nothing

 better

  than

LOVE

Being a friend

Being a friend to someone else is just about the kindest thing a person can do.  (Cue Carole King's wonderful song You've Got a Friend right now).  Think for a moment about how your own friends make you feel.  Think about the lyrics of this song too.  Next, go and be the best darn friend you can possibly be.

March forth!

I said it again. When this day rolls around each year I always think of Mom saying this day is a command (March forth). Of course spelling doesn't count. Another thing I really like about this date is how it reminds me of Mom. Is there anything that you do or say that will make future generations think of you? Hopefully you kindness will always be one of those things.

Mark Twain said it

Sometimes I have shared quotes here and one of my favorites comes from Mark Twain. He said "Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see."