The details are irrelevant, but I’ve been having a rough couple of months emotionally. And the past few days have been especially difficult. I’ve been trying to power through by keeping myself busy with the projects and the people who matter most, and going out of my way to let things go, not get hung up on the small stuff, and spread kindness as often as I can.
I’m so grateful to work for a company where I have been trusted to lead a small project focused on paying it forward in the community this month, and it has brought me more moments of joy and inspiration than I ever could have anticipated. The timing couldn’t be better. Giving just feels good.
And receiving… is really something else.
I know this, because I found myself the recipient of a kind act this morning as I pulled up to a drive-thru window, card in hand, ready to pay for my morning coffee. I sat, waiting for the window to open, with a hundred thoughts buzzing through my mind and weighing on my heart, when the barista popped out smiling and said, “Good morning! The woman behind you has offered to pay for your drink.”
I instantly wanted to cry.
I’ve had countless kind things happen to me over the years, and am incredibly thankful each and every time I recognize that generosity has come my way. I do my best not to take any of it for granted. When it happens so unexpectedly though, and from the heart of a complete stranger, the power of it can turn one’s entire week, an entire attitude that has begun heading south, right back around.
If you’ve had something like this happen to you – no matter how big or small – you know how incredible it feels. And if you haven’t been on the receiving end of a totally random act of kindness like this, then think back to a compliment, a gift, a hug, a phone call or a letter, a shared laugh, or any other kind, simple act – from a parent, sibling, coworker, friend, significant other, and so on – that made you feel good, pulled you out of a funk, even just for a moment. The feeling you get when your shown extraordinary kindness is amazing, regardless of who it comes from, or when. Knowing that you may have had that kind impact on someone’s mood, though, that feeling is even better.
“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” -Aesop
If your spirits need lifted, don’t wait around for someone else to make your day. Spread kindness like crazy, and I guarantee that by making another’s day better, you will feel better. You may never know how perfect your timing and your thoughtfulness is, or how brilliantly it pays off. But deep down, you’ll feel it. And just maybe, when you need it the very most, the universe will make sure the kindness you shared comes right back to you.
P.S. – It doesn’t have to cost a dime to be kind. If you want some inspiration, here are some ideas to consider.
P.P.S. – If the kind stranger behind me was not, in fact, a stranger, and is reading this now… thank you! ♥