This is not the source of all kindness

This blog is not the source of all kindness.  Try as I might, I am not the perfect person and I certainly don't have all the answers.  I try though.  We all can do that.  We can all strive to do our best to be kind to everyone.  I want to see a nice high success rate too!

it can be very simple

We don't have to think long and hard.  We don't have to go out of our way or spend a lot of money.  Kindness is a way of life.  It can be very simple, but it is who we are and how we act all the time.  Being kind makes people feel good, including ourselves!

help feed

There are lots of folks out there who go hungry, and nobody should have an empty belly. Consider volunteering to serve at a homeless shelter or other meal program.  Meals-On-Wheels or similar programs are usually in need of help too!

Oh joy!

Perhaps I sound like a little kid on Christmas morning, but there is something magical about seeing another person experiencing joy.  When you know that you helped to bring it about, well that seems to make it even more special.  I love trying to make people happy.  It's probably my favorite thing to do!

all around

In addition to BEING kind, I think we should also take time to observe the kind acts around us.  Let's observe the little things and watch how folks can bring a smile to others.  Sometimes we take things for granted, but if we just concentrate a little on doing and on seeing, I think we will all become kinder. It will be second nature.

Presence

Another celebrity took their own life yesterday.  We hear about the famous people, but not the stranger across town who commits suicide.  It happens every day and it is sad no matter who it is.  The answers are complicated, but one thing I have seen in the past 24 hours is people saying "I am here if you need me.  Please reach out."  The presence of people who care - people who will listen, can make a huge difference.  As I said, the answers can be complicated but a good place to start is the kind and caring folks who reach out.  I'm so grateful there are people like this in the world!

random acts

How about some random acts of kindness this July morning? I think kindness is an everyday thing, but it doesn't hurt to do some special unexpected things from time to time, like surprising the office with homemade cookies, or buying the latte for the stranger behind you at the coffee counter or leaving an extra big tip for your server at lunch.  Any ideas for some random things you might do today?