By Evetta McGriff
The definition of kindness is “the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate.” Being kind doesn’t have to cost anything and it’s simple to do, yet so many people aren’t kind. A simple act of kindness, whether it is planned or random, large or small, can mean the world to the person receiving the act. There are so many challenges that people participate in, yet kindness challenges don’t seem to happen very often. At schools you see activities such as Kindness Week, No Name Calling Week, and The Great Kindness Challenge, but what are we doing outside of school?
Acts of kindness can be anything. You can pay for the person’s food or drink behind you in line, or you can offer to help an elderly neighbor carry their groceries into their house. The Greek author Aesop said, “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” There is always a reason to be kind. Acts of kindness occur both in our words and actions. “Thank you” are two words that show your appreciation to someone for their generosity.
How do you want to be remembered? We should all strive to be remembered for the way we treat others. Dr. Maya Angelou once 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.” When others are being unkind, it’s up to you to show true character and display kindness. In the world in which we live, there are messages on social media that do not always display kindness to others. There should be more posts about neighbors helping each other in times of catastrophe, people donating to help those less fortunate, and individuals speaking up for those whose voices have not been heard. It should be cool to be kind. Instead, people choose to be cruel in the things they say and do. A small act of kindness towards someone may be just the thing they need to make it through the day. Not only does the act brighten their day, it makes you feel better too. Random acts of kindness may be the only gift someone receives, and to them it will be the greatest gift, regardless of the size. Be the gift that makes someone smile.
What are you going to do to make this world a kinder place? Be the “I” in “KIND.”
May12020
