Twelve years ago today, I met a new volunteer at an event at the Mall of America.  Her name is Margie, and for an unknown reason, I felt a special connection with her.  Perhaps it was her beautiful spirit of doing the little things that made the big things happen. Before parting ways that day, I asked if we might meet for coffee sometime to exchange ideas. For a dozen years now, we have shared our stories at monthly outings.

It’s not the number of years we’ve known friends. It’s the feeling we get when they cross our minds. Thank you, Margie, for blessing my life with your presence and your kindness.

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Think about the people who crossed your path today. It’s easy to remember the person who made or bought you coffee this morning. They were a blessing! How about the one who posted something you just don’t believe in?  Did it serve to strengthen your values or was it a lesson in not allowing others to spoil your day?

Be a blessing to someone today!

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During what may feel like turbulent times, it was encouraging to read the poem “Against the Brutal Urge” by Steve Garnaas-Holmes, author of Unfolding Light.

Against the brutal urge
only a mass of gentle people
will be effective.

Against the deep night
which is not bottomless after all
only light will bring release.

Against the lie that nothing can be done
only people doing it anyway
will prevail.

Against our own despair
only one who comes in love
can defend us.

Against the monstrous powers
only the invitation to love the poor child
will save us.…
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While traveling, it’s wonderful to see how kind people can be to each other around the world. I was pleasantly surprised to spot a sign that read “Be Kind” at a resort in Aruba. Everywhere we went, there were individuals committed to making our day even better.

During a mission trip to Guatemala, my husband was a member of a team that built a school in a remote area. The local community was incredibly grateful for their efforts. Although she didn’t have any money, an elderly woman presented a bowl of bananas—grown in her own garden—as a heartfelt gift of thanks to the group’s leader.

Kindness happens all around the world!

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Challenge yourself to accomplish one act of kindness today.

• Give a compliment: Look for a service worker who was prompt, friendly, or simply doing their job well, and give them a compliment.
• Connect with others: Text, call, or email a friend or family member just to let them know you’re thinking of them.
• Be helpful:  Set the table for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
• Be generous: Leave a generous tip today with a note on the check “You are appreciated.”
• Give thanks: Let others know when you’re happy spending time with them.

Not only does kindness make you feel good, but what you said or did may inspire others to do the same!…
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