Acts of Random Kindness to You

Who knew that making a call could make such an incredible difference in someone’s day? Yesterday, I was in Wal-mart and when I came out with my cart loaded, the wind was blowing in gusts of 40 mph or better. It was terrible.

A young man in his teens approached me and said that Wal-mart had put extra help on to assist in the parking lot due to the wind. I told him I was fine, but he insisted on helping. He was such a polite young man and absolutely refused a tip. As he walked away in the wind I heard him say, “Have a great night.” I chuckled. I mean he was going to be the one standing in the wind and rain for the next several hours and yet he smiled and said this to me.  After a long day, I left Wal-mart with a smile.

On my way home, I decided to call management and let them know about this experience. The manager was so pleased that she was heading out to the parking lot to let the young man know. On top of that, his parents had both been laid off and he had been asking for extra hours a lot lately. She stated to me, “He is going to get some of those extra hours because of this call.”  Apparently she had taken a lot of guff from other employees about this not so fun job, but he had just been pleased for the hours.

If you are ever in doubt, make that call and let people know when they have done something well. It could make the difference and it never hurts to spread a little extra kindness.

Television is always one of those topics that can heat up a discussion. Some people love it, some people hate it and others don’t think much about it one way or the other. Today, one has to be a little picky about what they are going to watch on television especially when it comes to children.

However, that is not to say that there are some really good program options out there. Still fighting the good fight are the PBS stations available in most places. From Sesame Street to Masterpiece Theater; if you look long enough there is something for everyone on PBS.

There is lots of family fun to be found on TVLand and other stations as well. Personally, I watch what I want to watch, but I am not looking out for the influence it might have on children either. I know and follow good morals as well as understanding right from wrong, so if I decide to watch a rather slanted sit com one night or a fast paced action show another night, I am not convinced it is hurting me.

I would love to hear what others think about the topic of televison programming as well…so share away and remember no matter what you watch, it is really all about actions. Spread a little kindness before settling down to watch television tonight.

This week is Valentine’s Week. It should not catch anyone by surprise considering the things were out in the store far before the Christmas holiday was even a memory. However, one of the best things in my mind about Valentine’s Day is it is a chance to spread a little extra love. It isn’t about the chocolates, flowers, and other gifts although those are all nice; it is about the kindness and generosity in the air on this special day.

Many people think that in order to enjoy Valentine’s Day, you have to be part of a couple, but love comes in many forms. Spend some extra time with an elderly relative, take those nieces and nephews for a night so their parents can go out, call a friend that you know is alone or think of something completely different to do to show love.

Love is a great thing, but never forget that it comes in more than simply the romantic form. Remember to love yourself first and then look for ways to love others. Still not sure what to do on this holiday? I am sure that there are many volunteer opportunities in your community that would “LOVE” to have you.

Take some time and spread some kindness to make the world a better place ! Most importantly, Happy Valentine’s Day !