Random Acts of Kindness

Like many of you I go on to Facebook on a regular basis but as the Pandemic progressed a saw a lot of negativity and unkind behaviour.  I stopped following certain people, I looked for more uplifting and insightful people to read and yes, being me, I follow a lot of cats - there's nothing like a fluffy cat or too to raise the spirits.   I miss my Isabella who died in October, a beautiful Birman cat, who filled me with love every day, so now I get it vicariously from Facebook posts of other Birmans and cats in general.   I rarely watch the news and just catch up on my phone, it's all too negative, critical and back-biting.  That is not what we need at the moment.

So in the early stages of the first Lockdown I started to give more to charities when I could, I send presents to friends out of the blue, just to make them smile, and I focused on what I could do.   I received so much kindness from others too, neighbours did my shopping as I was shielding until I got fixed up with a regular delivery.  On our small development a WhatsApp group was formed with neighbours so that we could all look out for one another and those that were able helped. those that werent.   It was simply uplifting and heartwarming.   We have all got used to the ups and downs now so these things aren't as prominent as they were but I know I only have to say something on WhatsApp and someone will help me out.  That's real kindness, community and love in action,

My friend's daughter has inspired me with how she is teaching her little children about kindess.   They have been drawing pictures and leaving them on neighbour's doorsteps to surprise them (they don't know these people).  They have learned that to give away a bar of chocolate to someone they don't know is a good thing to do and not to hang on to it saying "its mine".  Their mum has organised collections from her neighbours for the local food bank and the children are starting to see how those that are in a better position help those who are in need.   More acts of kindness, community, and love in action.  Those children will grow up with strong values and they are also learning that giving is a "win-win" .  You feel good for helping someone, making them smile, brightening their day. and they feel good for receiving it.   What's not to love.

I had been thinking about all of those who are stuck in negative thinking which spirals you down and how kindness to yourself and to others brings you back up again.   Now it doesn't need to be big things, you don't have to spend money, but there are so many things that you could do.  There are lonely people out there who may appreciate a phone call.

Why not talk about this with your family and friends and see what you could do to make a difference and then together we can make the world a little brighter and the side effect of that is you will feel good.    If you want to read a good book on this "The 5 Side Effects Kindness" by Dr David Hamilton is a great place to start and once you have read it pass it on to someone else as an act of kindness. 

Now I am off to plan my kindness plans for February.  Keep Safe, Keep Positive and focus on what You Can Do.  

Namaste