words of wisdom

As we prepare for a new year, I was thinking of these words of wisdom from Langston Hughes: "I have discovered in life that there are ways of getting almost anywhere you want to go, if you really want to go."

make it big

It is true that simple acts of kindness can transform people’s day, but what about something large? Lets go the extra mile and do something big like free yard work for an elderly neighbor or changing a flat tire for someone on the side of the road.  Getting into kind habits is wonderful, but if we make it big, think about how much more wonderful.

Words from Robert F Kennedy

I have always liked these words spoken by Robert Francis Kennedy: "Some men see things as they are and ask why.  I dream of things that never were and ask why not." 

goals

The tragedy of life doesn't lie in not reaching your goal. The real tragedy lies in having no goals to reach.

it makes a difference

What we do and how we act really makes a difference.  I have seen it so often.  Those positive moments in our lives are priceless.  Please believe me.

we're not finished

So many holidays!  Oh my!  I love this time of year.  Whatever you might be celebrating today, let's all be kind and nice to each other.  I'd love to see that celebration every single day of the year!

It’s Officially Christmas

I'm listening to Dan+Shay sing "It’s Officially Christmas." They are correct of course. Today is Christmas Day. I know a lot of people don't celebrate and then there are those who have been celebrating for over a month now. Yes, we are all different. In our kindness though we should respect that. So often this is called the "Season of Giving" and what better gift is there that the gift of kindness? Happiness to you all!

make someone happy

One of the happiest things for me is when I make someone happy.  It doesn't have to take a lot of effort.  It's usually pretty simple.  Talk to people.  Be interested in their life.  Show that you care.  It's amazing but if you make someone happy, you will find that it also makes you happy.

My tradition

There isn't a single holiday decoration up at my apartment and I haven't sent out any Christmas cards.  That my surprise you. I do celebrate, I'm very traditional and it isn't Christmas yet. I'll be putting up a tree tomorrow afternoon, and I will be singing carols.  I'm very traditional when it comes to kindness too.  It is ALWAYS important!

daydreaming

Sometimes I daydream about all of the ways I want to make someone happy.  Does that seem odd?  We need more joy and happiness in our world, and I want to make that happen.  I know many of you are with me in this endeavor.  The daydreaming might be good, but I need to do more.  Let's all make it happen!

a nice hot beverage

It is still cold outside. In some places it can be extremely cold.  Bundle up and share warm wishes with others. A very kind gesture might be to give folks hot beverages - cider is particularly popular at this time of year.  Hot chocolate is good too!

Kindness from Mom

My mother was a very kind person.  People noticed.  It was part of who she was.  I hope a lot of that rubbed off on me.  I try.  Today would have been Mom's birthday, and even though she passed away several years ago, this is one of those days she is especially present in my mind.  I want to do things that would make her proud.  I miss you Mom!

Jonah's words

"It is a popular trend nowadays to say love is very much conditional. I've heard people compare it to a glass of water that eventually runs out when love isn't reciprocated. This encouragement of selfishness must stop," says my friend Jonah Kim. "True love is an infinite well and is absolutely unconditional," Jonah says.  I've shared this before, but it's important.  He concludes "True love feels almost helpless in its endless giving, without asking for anything in return.  And if the ones you love love you back, there is nothing more beautiful, precisely because we love without premeditated expectations."

setting our aim

"Danger for most of us lies not in setting our aim too high and falling short; 

  but in setting our aim too low and achieving our mark."  

                                    -Michelangelo di Lodovico Buonarroti Simoni

We can top that

When we were younger, most of us had a competitive spirit.  We wanted to win at sports or academia or maybe something as silly as who can eat the most hot dogs.  There is certainly nothing wrong with trying to improve and do better.  How about it we worked on being kinder?  Yesterday I think I was a kind person, but I can top that.  I can do better.  We all can.

change a person’s life

It would seem that actor Jackie Chan agrees with me. It was he that said, "Sometimes it takes only one act of kindness and caring to change a person’s life."  Indeed.

halfway

We are already halfway through December!  Oh my!  This month always seems to go so fast.  We have nearly reached the cold months of winter, and very soon the year will end.  Let's keep the kindness going and warm everyone with good feelings!

uniquely powerful and impactful

Acts of kindness are uniquely powerful and impactful.  Please believe me.

make my day

Remember the catchphrase spoken by the character Harry Callahan in the movie Sudden Impact? "Go ahead, make my day!" Well today, make someone's day. (No, not like in the film). Just do something kind.

There are so many possibilities. In fact, I think together we can make many people's day!

Start spreadin' the word.

I have said "Start spreadin' the word" here before, and I hope some of you will start leaving a word or two also.  Comments can be left after any post.  Feel free to include your own kindness ideas.  I just know there are some wonderful ideas out there!  Tell others about this blog.  Spread the word and spread the kindness!

I'm back!

It's been over a full month since I posted here.  Did anyone miss my posts?  My absence was due to a very simple problem.  My computer broke.  Since I write here about kindness, let me tell you that my return is due to kindness.  I was given a brand-new laptop!  It is great to be back and I will return to talking about kindness.  First though I want to say something about gratitude.  I am VERY grateful for this wonderful gift!

perfect moments

Choose to be happy!  Not because everything is perfect.  (It isn't).  But because you choose to focus on the moments that are perfect!

My sister's birthday

Today is my sister's birthday.  I hope it is a happy one for her.  In your great kindness, let us always remember our siblings and all the folks in our lives as they celebrate milestones.  My sister is very nice.  Do feel free in joining me in sending her good wishes!

spread it

Goodness and kindness.  Spread it everywhere.  We need some everywhere.

random acts

I love thinking of those random acts of kindness that really make a difference. Here are some more. Buy books for a day care center or school or donate some from your own library. Donate blood. Volunteer at an organization that needs help. Go through your closets and find several nice items and then donate them to a shelter. Give toys to the children at a shelter. There are so many other ideas!

I need your help

If you read this every day, you already know that it is about kindness.  In my opinion, we need more of it.  I need your help though.  We all need to do our part.  It's an everything sort of thing too.  We aren't just kind for special events, but always and everywhere.  I'm not perfect, but I am trying to be a kinder person, and I hope you will all join me!

Kindness all around

Some days I see so many examples of kindness, it truly warms my heart. Yesterday it seemed to be everywhere, and I will tell some of those stories in the days ahead. Occasionally I get a little discouraged and think the world is falling apart. All of a sudden, I realize that kindness is all around. Such a great thing to realize.

Happy Halloween!

Costumes and candy!  Oh my!  This day also has so many built-in opportunities for kindness.  How creative can you be?  Be especially kind today to the children who are dressing up and trick-or-treating.  Oh, and have fun too!

comments

I'm grateful for the opportunity to share some thoughts here in this space every morning and there is a counter that tells me how many people click on here each day, but it cannot tell me if you actually read these words and what you might think about them.  Every now and then if you take a moment to comment here I would appreciate it.  I'd especially like to hear your own stories of kindness.

Homework Assignment

I do have many ideas, but I'd love to hear what you have to say as well, so here's your homework assignment: Think up a way to make this a kinder world.  Feel free to think up many different ways if you like. Then, share your suggestions here so that we can all join in implementing those ideas. Let's see how many different ideas we can come up with!

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." What a beautiful way of saying it, huh?

remember

Remember: You are special. You have purpose. You are loved.  Never forget that. This is true of every single person.  Remember it.  Remind others too. You are special. You have purpose. You are loved.

Obama on Change

Now more than ever, let us not forget the wise words of former President Barack Obama, who said "Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we've been waiting for. We are the change that we seek."

It's really pretty remarkable

Kindness has a way of lifting us up, just like the eagle soars high above.  Kindness brings out the best in us and those around us, allowing us to reach new heights of compassion and understanding.  It's really pretty remarkable!

from Archbishop Tutu

Remember the words of Archbishop Desmond Tutu who said "Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world."

as natural as breathing.

I don't know when (or if) everyone will catch on, but being kind is such an easy thing and important thing.  I hope that someday it will come as naturally for everyone as breathing.  We can do it!  I KNOW that we can!  Be kind!

Ella

I always enjoyed the music of Ella Fitzgerald, but it wasn't just her wonderful singing, Ella said some pretty inspiring thing too. She said "Just don't give up trying to do what you really want to do. Where there is love and inspiration, I don't think you can go wrong."  I agree.

inspiring

I love those who inspire us, like that Ralph Waldo Emerson said "What lies behind you and what lies in front of you, pales in comparison to what lies inside of you."

personal growth

The path from desire to action is not just about achieving goals. It is also about personal growth and transformation.  I certainly want to grow as a kind person.

knowledge and wisdom

About knowledge and wisdom, a wise person (I'm not sure who) had some profound words.  "Never mistake knowledge for wisdom. One helps you make a living; the other helps you make a life."

wonderful quote

I'm sure I've shared this wonderful quote here before. It's one of my favorites and comes from Ralph Waldo Emerson. "You cannot do kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late."

Be civil

Sometimes all the arguing in the world makes me want to scream, especially in the areas of politics and religion.  Let's be civil and let's be kind.

I want to be one

I want to be a good person.  I want to be a nice person in general.  I hope that I along the way I can influence others too, not only by my words, but more importantly by my actions.

footprints

Former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt said, "Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart."  Lets all try to leave some footprints!

how many ways

How many ways are there to say "be kind"?  Well, if we are basing the answer on the number of posts here in this blog, it would be over 2,400 but that is only a tiny part of it all.  We all show kindness in our own ways, and that is a wonderful thing.  The ways are endless!

who

Every one of us have met someone who is kind.  If we are fortunate enough, we have met several people who are.  Kindness is not just for family and friends.  Hopefully we encounter kindness in the workplace, at school, when we are shopping, and even from the celebrities we enjoy.  Think for a moment about who might be on your list of kind people.  Let's all do our best to add to the world's kindness.

cans

My grandmother used to keep an empty coffee can to collect any coins she might accumulate during the day.  When the can was full, she'd donate it.  Another thing about cans, many of them are recyclable.  That is indeed kind to the planet. Many people participate in food drives to help out those who may have little or no food.  Food in cans is especially good because it lasts longer.

Light Up My life

Remember back when Debby Boone sang "You Light Up My life"? It's a happy song because lighting up someone's life is such a kind and happy thing to do. Today and every day, do your best to light up someone's life!

gifts don't come with strings

Gifts don't come with strings attached.  Has someone ever told you how many things they have done for you and how much you now owe them? In my way of thinking, they gave you nothing at all.  Of course, it is always very nice to do kind things for those who have done kind things for you, but that should not be your reason. Actually, no reason is necessary at all. Give out of the love in your heart and expect nothing in return. That is the real joy.

kindness for the animals

Do you have a dog or cat or any pets at home? Are there any animals around the places you frequent? Sometimes when we talk about kindness, we forget about the animals, and they need kindness too. Treat the animals of the world with the same love, kindness, and respect that you like to have shown toward you.

surrounded by kindness

For some it just comes naturally.  I think so of it has to do with tradition and how people act around you.  If we are always surrounded with kindness, then it would seem we are more likely to be kind.  Of course I am no expert.  What do YOU think?

Now

I keep hearing the stories from funerals of friends and loved ones commenting on how much they loved the departed person.  Yes, this is good to be sure, but I can't help wondering if they said that while the person was alive.  Never wait to express your positive feelings toward someone.  Let them know you love them NOW.

Some kind things to do

Some kind things we can all do:  Donate time at a senior center.  Make a point of finding the name of a supermarket or drugstore employee who helped you, and then praise him/her through that company’s corporate office.  Tell your parents/children why you love them.  Share your smile generously.  Call or visit a homebound person.  As you go about your day, pick up trash.  Go through your closets and find several nice items and then donate them to a shelter.

self kindness

You are not too old and it's not too late. Never give up. Be kind to yourself. You never know what your future might bring.

Everything is not about YOU

Pandemics are real, whether or not you know someone who is sick. Racism is real, even if you are not a racist. White privilege is real, even if you don't feel it. Police brutality is real, even if that cop you know is kind and just. Your world isn't THE world.  Everything is not about YOU.  Burying your head in the sand and pretending something does not exist, won't make it so.

telephone

Oh how I wish I could call my mom or my dad or my dear aunt or grandmother.  So much of my family is gone.  Is that true for you?  Don't wait until it's too late.  Just yesterday a woman was telling me her two daughters never call her.  I don't think she liked my response, but I reminded her that telephones work two ways.  You may be hoping for someone to call you, but why not simply call them!

Not a guru

More than once, someone has called me the Kindness Guru. An expert on kindness? Oh, dear no! Wouldn't it be great if we could all be an expert?  I do look for our world to be kinder each day. That requires us all to do our part, and that certainly includes me. This blog is meant to encourage the readers, and also to encourage me. I hope I will become better each day.

look forward

"Look forward with hope, not backwards with regret."  Wise words, huh?  (It isn't an original thought, but I can't recall who said it).

Stay

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and I want to remind everyone again that life is precious.  Stay.  The world is better with you.  

We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, 

free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention, 

and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.

988

Missing Mister Rogers

I sure am missing Mister (Fred) Rogers.  He was such a kind man and always pointed us in the right direction.  He once said "As human beings, our job in life is to help people realize how rare and valuable each one of us really is, that each of us has something that no one else has, or ever will have-something inside that is unique to all time."

playing

We don't stop playing because we grow old.
Nope.  We grow old because we stop playing.

Sunshine

Those who bring sunshine to the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves.  Bring some sunshine.

simple message

 The purpose of this blog, the message of this blog, is very, very simple.  BE KIND!

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!

equality and opportunity for all

I cannot understand at all how destroying families through deportation benefits our society in any way. Whatever happened to basic human kindness? Whatever happened to the fundamental American promise of equality and opportunity for all?  How can we think of some people as "illegal"?

CARE

Students and teachers at Georgia’s Apalachee High School, where a teenager carried out a deadly mass shooting yesterday, are on everyone's mind this morning. That certainly is the kind thing. In my opinion though tragedies like this should never occur. We need to all care more about our kids and their educators. School shootings can be prevented. First though we all have to CARE.

a few random acts of kindness

Here are some things we can all do to show kindness toward others: Volunteer to be a tutor in a school. Buy a pack of brightly colored stickers and give them to children you meet during the day. 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 on social media. twitter Buy some bottles of water and randomly hand them out to strangers on the street. Drop off a plant or a plate of cookies to your nearby police or fire station. (Please add your own ideas below)!

Suicide Prevention Month

September is Suicide Prevention Month, and I'm going to say something about this several times. While suicide prevention must be addressed year-round, the month of September especially reminds us that we can make an impact and help those in crisis and their loved ones.  Every life is important.

We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention, and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

                                                    988

water

Lots of hot days where I live. One very kind thing to do on days like this is to buy bottles of water (those little ones work just fine) and randomly hand them out to strangers on the street.

be a friend

Today is International Friendship Day. Being a friend is one of the kindest things anyone can do. Be there. Make a difference in someone's life.

Enjoying your summer

So are you enjoying your summer?  You know what would make it even more enjoyable?  You already know what I'm going to say.  Kindness.  Yup.  Kindness makes everything more enjoyable!

Independence Day

On this Independence Day, I am remembering these important words from Frederick Douglass: "The life of the nation is secure only while the nation is honest, truthful and virtuous."

Oh Canada!

I regularly chat with a dear woman from Canada. Today, Canada Day, I am especially thinking of her. Formerly known as Dominion Day, today celebrates the anniversary of Canadian Confederation which occurred on July 1, 1867, with the passing of the British North America Act, when the three separate colonies of the United Canadas, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick were united into a single dominion called Canada.  Special kindness today to all our Canadian friends.

do it some more

It's the last day of June.  Tomorrow is Canada Day and a few days later the US celebrates Independence Day.  Every day though is special.  Every day is an opportunity for more kindness.  Has this been a kind month for you?  I certainly hope so.  Now as we go into July, let's do it some more!

testify to love

Songwriters Paul Field, Henk Pool, Robert Riekerk, and Ralph Van Mennen hit a home run when they wrote Testify to Love. On what is LGBTQ+ Pride Weekend in many places, I'm thinking of the incredible lyrics of that song: 

               "For as long as I shall live, I will testify to love
               I'll be a witness in the silences when words are not enough
               With every breath I take, I will give thanks to God above
               For as long as I shall live, I will testify to love"

remembering a friend

Today would have been the 51st birthday of a dear friend who was the very picture of kindness.  Cancer and took him way too soon.  I will always remember him though and am so grateful he came my way.

Will we ever learn

Many years ago the Rev Dr Martin Luther King Jr. said “We have flown the air like birds and swum the sea like fishes, but have yet to learn the simple act of walking the earth like brothers.” My question is "Will we ever learn"?

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."

Saturday

It is Saturday the 22nd day of June and it is a day to be kind to one another.  Isn't that true every single day?  Of course it is!  I just wanted to remind us all.  Yes, we should always be kind.

blood

We don't make blood in labs.  When someone in a car accident needs blood, it comes from our donations.  If a cancer patient or a woman in childbirth needs blood, it comes from us.  One of the kindest things a person can do is to donate blood.  I have said this for years, and it is true.  Your blood donations truly save lives.  Think about becoming a blood donor.

Kind Willie

You have probably heard already that a great athlete passed away yesterday, the incredible San Francisco Giants Legend Willie Mays. Besides his skill in baseball, I keep hearing folks talk about how warm and generous and kind he was. Nice. That is the way a person should be remembered. May we all be that kind!

kind words

Over the weekend I received the novel that a dear friend wrote and so I quickly sent him a message of thanks. He is such a loving and generous person, so I wasn't surprised that he responded to me for thanking him. He also said "your 'kindness blog' is lovely!"  I have no idea how many people actually read these words every day, but his kind words are certainly encouraging, and I am grateful.

Not that long ago

Not that long ago I mentioned hearing of someone's death.  We for some reason had stopped keeping in touch.  I regret that.  There were so many opportunities to say what I felt about this person, but not anymore.  Don't wait.  Tell people who you feel about them now.  Show your love and you concern for those people in your life while you still have a chance.

enjoy life

I've said this many times and it is so important. We should all make the most of every day. Enjoy life. Do what we can to makes the world better and help our neighbors to also make the most of every day.

equally

Voltaire said it. “All the citizens of a state cannot be equally powerful, but they may be equally free.”

cures

A kind word, a good laugh, and a long restful sleep are three of the best cures for anything.

Be kind to animals

Being kind to our neighbors is important of course, but it is also so very important to be kind to animals.  We hear about animal cruelty a lot, which I find disgusting, and I'd love to see a campaign for humans to remember they share this planet with over 2.16 million animal species.  Let us be kind to them!

It's Sunday

It's Sunday and the beginning of another week.  That might not seem like a big deal, but I am grateful for each and every day of my life and am especially grateful for every opportunity to be kind to others.  So, let's get going!  Where will you be showing kindness today?

what this is all about

Just in case you stumbled upon this blog for the very first time, let me tell you what this is all about. It's pretty simple. This is about kindness. I want to be a kinder person and I want this to be a kinder world. Please help!

Wisdom of Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou was so very wise. She said, “We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter what their color.”

Thank you Mister Rogers

Fred Rogers was always such a comfort and was so encouraging. He told us "Being kind means responding to the needs of others—and people can be kind, no matter how old or young we are."  Thank you Mister Rogers!

Melissa said

“Love is never wrong.” 

       -Melissa Etheridge

the rainbow of humanity

As LGBTQ+ Pride Month begins, I remember these words from rainbow flag creator Gilbert Baker: "What I liked about the rainbow is that it fits all of us. It’s all the colors. It represents all the genders. It represents all the races. It’s the rainbow of humanity." 

another month

Today we end the fifth month of the year.  Wow!  Sometimes it seems like time flies by.  How has 2024 been to you so far?  Do the people you come in contact with seem more kind these days?  How kind are YOU?  Be proud of yourself if you think you are improving, but never stop and never give up.  We can always improve.

true heroism

On this Memorial Day, I remember the words of tennis great Arthur Ashe who said “True heroism is remarkably sober, very undramatic. It is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost, but the urge to serve others at whatever cost.”

Karen was singing

Fifty-two years ago, Karen Carpenter was singing "What I've got they used to call the blues. Nothin' is really wrong, Feelin' like I don't belong." Ever had a day like that yourself? That popular song Rainy Days and Mondays could easily describe today, except for one thing: Nothing needs to get us down. Nothing. It's raining where I live, and it is indeed Monday, but I refuse to be depressed about anything. There are bright corners everywhere. Just look for them.

hospital week

Highlighting our hospitals, health systems, and health care workers and the innovative ways they are supporting and connected to our communities, yesterday we began Hospital Week. As a hospital volunteer of many years, I can tell you one thing for certain about hospitals. You will encounter a LOT of kindness there!

another be good to mommy day

On the old television program Captain Kangaroo, I can remember them singing "Another Be Good To Mommy Day."  Of course every day is such a day.  Today is Mother's Day and while people will do special things for their moms, I want to encourage you all do remember the wisdom of Captain Kangaroo.  Don't just be good to your mom today, but every single day.

giving blood

Want to hear some amazing numbers?  Every 2 seconds someone in the United States needs blood and or platelets. Approximately 29,000 units of red blood cells are needed every day in the US and nearly 5,000 units of platelets and 6.500 units of plasma are needed. Wow!  Blood cannot be made in a lab.  When blood is needed it comes from the kind and caring donors who truly save lives.  That's why I mention it here so often.

nurses

Nurses are amazing, and on this Nurses Day, I want to quote Maya Angelou who said "As a nurse we have the opportunity to heal the mind, soul, heart, and body of our patients. They may forget your name, but they will never forget how you made them feel." I agree. It has been said "Save one life, you’re a hero. Save 100 lives, you’re a nurse."

Don't wait

I have said this many times before, but it really cannot be said too much.  Tell people who you feel about them now.  Don't wait.  Yesterday I learned of the death of someone I have many fond memories of.  We had been out of touch, and now it's too late.  Don't let that happen to you and those you care about.  Show your love and you concern for those people in your life.

new month

It's a new month and a new week and a new opportunity to show our kindness!  How wonderful!  Happy May everybody!  Be kind!

more love

More love.
Our world can always use more love.

What is better than love?

Ask yourself this:  What is better than love?  Seriously.  Can you come up with an answer?  I called February the Love Month, but we had last month and can have more now.  Love is all around.  How wonderful, because I think there is nothing better than love!

the kind people

I love hearing stories of kindness. Sometimes on the local news we hear of a neighborhood hero or maybe in a Facebook post. The kind acts that people do always warm my heart and getting all the details is such an extra bonus. Sharing stories can be done here too - just add them in the comments below!  I really never get tired of here about kind acts and the kind people in our world.

Earth Day

Today is Earth Day. I happen to think that every day should be Earth Day. but that's another matter. Let's just concentrate on today for the moment. I talk here about kindness, and usually am talking about being kind to other people, but there is another kindness that is extremely important. Be kind to our planet. Be kind to the future generations who will live here. Today, set some goals for our relationship with the good old Earth.  We CAN make a difference!

Volunteer Week

This is National Volunteer Week in the United States, so thank you to those who volunteer. They really make a difference. Benefits of volunteering are enjoyed by the community effected of course, but also by the volunteers themselves, in knowing that they contributed to the betterment of society in some manner. if you don't already, consider volunteering. You might begin with your local hospital.

missing Nana

I miss my grandmother.  She was such a kind person and I have so many fond memories of her.  (Today would have been her birthday).  Thanks, Nana, for making a difference!

forever

What we do for ourselves remains with us, but what we do for others remains forever.  

No war

War is never a good thing. There is currently fighting going on in Myanmar, Russia, Ukraine, Israel, Lebanon, Sudan, and several other countries. Yesterday there was talk of another world war. This is nothing new. Throughout history there has been fighting and killing, but it doesn't have to be this way. We can actually sit down and work out our differences. We can actually respect each other and be kind. We can, but we don't. I really don't understand it. Let's all say, "no war" and mean it.

starting another week

As we start this second week of April, may it be a kinder and happier we than last, and may we all show more love toward one another.  We can all do great things.  We can all make a positive difference.  Let's spread joy and make the world a better place.  Be kind!

lifesaving blood

I've mentioned it before, but we can really never be reminded enough.  Blood donors are heroes.  Giving blood is such a kind and generous thing to do.  I am always delighted to hear stories of what motivated someone to give blood, and to keep coming back to blood drives over and over.  As a volunteer blood drive coordinator I see it over and over and so I say it over and over:  Gove blood!

Be Kind

It's a pretty simple message that I share here every day.  I hope it helps me be a better person and I hope it touches and motivates you as well.  We can never have too much kindness in our world.  Let's just keep adding more and more.  Be kind!

How about you

How about you? I keep listing 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!

no joke

Pranks?  No thanks!  I've never been a fan of the jokes and pranks that are popular on All Fools Day.  Some of them are just plain mean.  Here is what I suggest instead:  let's find many creative new ways to show kindness.  Seriously.  No fooling!

That's it

We're done with March now. That's it! Let the month go out on a very kind note though. See how many people you can make smile today.  See how many hearts you can warm.

thank you so much

I would love to reach out to all of the kind people in this world and say "thank you so much for your kindness."  It truly makes a difference.  We need more people like that.  We will always need more kind people.  Kindness is never out of style.

powerful

Acts of kindness are uniquely powerful and impactful.

some kindness ideas

Regulars here know that I have listed various acts of kindness here before. Here are a few more: Bring flowers to work and share them with coworkers. Volunteer to read to kids in the library. Donate time at a senior center.  Pay for the person behind you in the movie line. Tell your parents/children why you love them. Donate blood. Send a gift anonymously to a friend.  Pay for the meal of the person behind you in the drive-through. Can you think of more?

The Lead Singer

There's a certain singer in a popular band, who so very kind and nice.  Posing during a recent performance with a little boy attending his very first concert.  He made that little boy's day, and with such a simple act.  Oh and I'm not talking about an isolated incident.  I hear about the kindness of this singer all the time!  I need to journey to one of their concerts, so I can see it up close for myself!

What we need is love

We can remove statues and symbols all day long, but it's the hate in people's hearts that needs to be removed.  We need to share love and kindness.  We need to put aside violence and destruction.  Hate is never a value we should be embracing.  What we need is love.

looking forward

Do you have things that you look forward to? Spring is just around the corner, and I always look forward to that. Easter is a favorite of mine too.  Every December, as Christmas draws near, I look forward to the holiday celebrations.  One of the big things I look forward to every single day is seeing friends and neighbors, chatting with strangers, seeing smiles and acts of kindness. I will never tire of seeing people do nice things for each other.  I'm always looking forward to something!

Kind nurse

Due to a lengthy hospital stay, a man was forced to give his dog to the local animal shelter. In an act of great kindness, one of his nurses went to the shelter and adopted his dog. She brings the dog to visit him daily, and when the man is discharged from hospital, she plans to give the dog back to him.  True story that warms my heart!  

Good Samaritan Day

The term "good Samaritan" comes from the Bible parable where a Samaritan helped a stranger who had been robbed and beaten and left to die by the side of the road. Today is National Good Samaritan Day recognizing the unselfish actions of those who provide help when it is needed. The day is also known as Good Samaritan Involvement Day and celebrates kindness in all its forms.

Hospital Hugs

I was working my volunteer shift at hospital yesterday when an outpatient (there for some tests) came up to me and asked if I remembered her.  I sure did!  Her husband had been a patient there several years ago and knowing he was in his last days, she tried to stay positive and one day asked if I would give her a hug.  Well it became a regular thing.  Lots of hugs.  One day in the cafeteria she walked up to where I was sitting with tears streaming down her face.  Her husband had died.  We hugged.  Yesterday she told me I had been a big help and thanked me.  We hugged once again.

amazing women

This is International Women's Day, and I'm thinking at the moment of some fantastic people in my life who happen to be women.  My mom is at the top of that list.  She was amazing and was always kind.  I miss her a lot.  Think today of the amazing women in your life and be thankful.

Happy Wednesday!

How are you doing this morning?  I hope all is well.  Thanks for reading my words here.  Some days I have a lot to say, but it is all meant to encourage us to be better people.  I'm not sure if it's working, but I'll keep on trying.  Happy Wednesday and be kind!

March Fourth

Today is March Fourth, which my mother always said was a command (march forth).  I think of her words every single year.  It's amazing how some things always stick with you.  Anyway, let's all march forth on this March Fourth!  Remember also to be kind.

Soup It Forward

When my mom made a pot of soup, it was nearly always enough to feed an army. I think that's true for most of us, so how about sharing?  Deliver a nice hot pot of your delicious chicken noodle or split pea to a family or friend in need, or to someone under the weather.  Today is National Soup it Forward Day on encouraging us to deliver love and kindness by the bowlful.  I could go for a nice hot pot of potato soup!

time marches on

Today we begin the third month of the year.  Wow!  Doesn't it seem like we just celebrated New Years?  Time marches on folks.  We should cherish every single day.  Let's also make each day enjoyable for others.  Be kind.  Make a difference.

BONUS

February doesn't always give us as much time to be kind.  Instead of thirty or thirty-one days, February usually only has twenty-eight.  This is leap year though with twenty-nine days, so on this bonus day, be extra kind!

kindness at the concerts

It seems just about every day I hear about some kind thing that singer Arnel Pineda has done.  He really connects with his audience at concerts, and I just saw pictures from two different venues where he was posing with a little boy.  You know those kids were probably at their first concerts and that warm happy memory will stay with them forever.  Thanks for making a difference, Arnel!

in times of anxiety

In times of anxiety and when we are experiencing extreme stress do you know what helps calm your anxious thoughts?  Kindness.  Yup.  Here is just one more reason why being kind is so good.  I have heard this from experts and also experienced it myself.  If a court ruling has you frustrated; if crime in the streets has made you tense; if there is stress in your life due to hatred and injustice, try doing something especially nice for someone.  I don't mean to minimize life's problems, and we certainly should work on correcting the ills of society, but a kind act can also be a wonderful tonic.

Beginning a new week

 It's Sunday, and that means we are beginning a new week, one where I hope we will all experience a lot of kindness.  I hope that people are kind to us, and of course I hope we will all be kind ourselves.  I am certain we can do it!

day off

Is there a day when we don't have to be kind? Are you kidding me? We don't take a day off from caring about other people.  Being good and kind is an everyday occurrence we should practice every single day of the year!

Care

Too many suicides. Actually, ANY suicide is too many. Care about your family and friends, and even total strangers. Be there for them. Checking in on those who have depression is an important step in reminding them that they are not alone and are cared for. Simple gestures, such as a smile or a greeting, can go a long way as well.

We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and 

confidential support for people in distress, prevention, and crisis resources for you 

or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

988

time

If you knew how much time you had left, you wouldn't waste your attention and energy on meaningless things.

Your stories

I always love hearing stories of kindness.   Sometimes on the local news we hear of a neighborhood hero or maybe in a facebook post. The kind acts that people do always warm my heart and getting all the details is such an extra bonus.  It can also give all of us idea on how to be more kind.  Sharing stories can be done here too - just add them in the comments below!

on the bus

It was cold out yesterday. I was more than a block away from the bus stop, but the bus driver stopped beside me and called out "Going home? Get in." The driver's kindness didn't stop there. There is a bus stop just past my apartment building, but instead she drove into the driveway and let me out at my front door!  Kind indeed.

The Day of Love

Our world can never have too much love.  Today is Valentine's Day, which is generally focused on romantic love, but all love is important.  May the Day of Love fill your heart and may the kindness you show to others light up their lives!

they add up!

Those little things - they add up.  Just a smile and a friendly word can mean so much.  We all have the ability to bring happiness to others.  Small acts of kindness can mean a lot.  What can we do this Sunday to make a difference.  I'm sure there are numerous things! It's those little kind things that people do that mean so much.

your worth

There will always be someone who can't see your worth.  Don't let it be you.

If we all help

I have always felt called to give back to society and to try hard to make a positive difference.  One of the reasons why I write here every day is because I would love to see a kinder world.  Big task?  Not really.  If we all help, it will happen.

from Oprah

Oprah Winfrey said, “To extend yourself in kindness to anybody is an extension in kindness in the world.”  (By the way, I adore Oprah)!

Jimmy's wisdom

Former President Jimmy Carter is 99.  Perhaps his wisdom is a key to his long life.  He once said.  "Earlier in my life, I thought the things that mattered were the things that you could see, like your car, your house, your wealth, your property, your office.  But as I’ve grown older, I’ve become convinced that the things that matter most are the things that you can’t see—the love you share with others, your inner purpose, your comfort with who you are."

It's in my blood

One of the most wonderful things a person can do, is donating blood.  I coordinate several blood drives every year and I am always encouraged by the love and generosity that people show. I never tire of hearing the many stories of why people donate.  Kindness?  Absolutely!  I wish everyone would donate blood.  

happy weekend!

Happy weekend dear readers!  Love yourself.  Love and respect others also.  Be a light in the world. Above everything, be kind.

Groundhog Day

Poor Phil Connors. He becomes trapped in a time loop, forcing him to relive February 2 repeatedly.  I think of Groundhog Day as a fun film, but not a movie with a heavy message, until you wait to highlight that repeating theme.  How about kindness becoming such a regular part of who we are and what we do, that it keeps repeating, without us even being aware of it.

The Love Month

Because of Valentine's Day (on the 14th), February is often thought of as the love month. As much as I like that idea, and many of you will know what I am about to say before I even say it, I would love it if every single month was a love month. Share the love in May and in October and in every single month of the year. We can never have too much!

The driver on the bus

I suppose the bus driver didn't see me because she kept on going.  I waved and yelled, but it didn't do any good - for her, but another driver, going the other direction.  He pulled around, let me board and wouldn't let me pay.  He then proceeded directly to my door (he knew where I lived because he sometimes drove that other route), before resuming his schedule.  He might have gotten a tad behind, although I am sure he was able to make it up.  He also did one of the kindest things I can imagine, and it made my day!

National Compliment Day

A compliment has a powerful effect. Today is National Compliment Day, providing a wonderful way to brighten someone's day or to give credit for a job well done. Give an extra compliment to someone today. In fact, let's be especially generous with those compliments! What a kind thing to do.

Happy Sunday

Hello!  Happy Sunday to you!  I hope you have a wonderful day and I hope you will do things that help others have a wonderful day too.

Start spreadin' the word

Being kind is not part of a secret club, and neither is this daily blog.  Leave comments.  Share this with others.  http://ofbeingkind.blogspot.com/  Let's all help each other become kinder!  May being nice and being kind be at the forefront of all our minds.

Honoring Martin Luther King

On the day we honor Martin Luther King Jr., here are three important quotes from him:

   - "Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter." 
   - "I have decided to stick to love.  Hate is too great a burden to bear."

   - "Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that."

Every single day

Every single day is important. Good days give happiness, bad days give experiences, worst days give lessons, and best days give memories. Treasure them all.

National Pharmacist Day

Today is National Pharmacist Day. Pharmacists are an important member of our health care team, directly involved in patient care and play a vital role in patient recovery. Be kind and be grateful to our pharmacists always.

it isn't complicated

Be kind to people. It really isn't complicated. Being kind should simple be our way of life all the time and with all people.  

Acts of kindness

Every now and then I have listed things we can all do to show kindness toward others. Here are some more: Volunteer to be a tutor in a school. Buy a pack of brightly colored stickers and give them to children you meet during the day. 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 facebook and Instagram friends. Buy some bottles of water and randomly hand them out to strangers on the street. Drop off a plant or a plate of cookies to your nearby police or fire station. Please add your own ideas below!

Kindness ideas

Kindness ideas are never-ending! Here are a few. Send a treat to a school or day-care center. Volunteer at an organization that needs help. Go through your closets and find several nice items and then donate them to a shelter. Buy books for a day care or school. Give toys to the children at a shelter. 

twelfth night

For those of you celebrating the twelve days of Christmas, today is the last day.  In some parts of the world tomorrow is a really big deal.  Tomorrow is when the three kings arrive and for many, it is a day when gifts are shared. I find it very kind when people share their customs with me, and I always enjoy seeing the various ways holidays are observed.  Have yourself a happy twelfth night!

Don't give up

 Don't give up on the person you are becoming.

too late

I know that I have shared this wonderful quote here before. It's one of my favorites and comes from Ralph Waldo Emerson. "You cannot do kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late."  How very true.

a brand-new year

It's a brand-new year!  As we welcome 2024, let us all try to make this the kindest year ever.  Let's care about ourselves and care about others.  Thanks so much for reading these daily messages these past seven years.  Be kind!