Acts of Random Kindness

Holding a door open for someone, letting someone go before you in the grocery line because they have only two items, saying thank you, or even something as simple as saying hello to a complete stranger as you are both walking along.  It's these little things that everyday people do that have the biggest effect on those who are on the receiving end.  People as a whole tend to overlook the small things that can mean the most to someone else, and focus on the big grand gestures or assume that is what they are expecting from you, which is not always the case. I was doing some reading and  I ran across this quote that really spoke to me:  To often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, and honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring-all of which have the potential to turn a life around....author unknown...
This is a powerful truth.  You can add the concept of Paying it Forward to the idea of Acts of Random Kindness, they are two sides of the same coin.  Every so often I have several friends that ask our community to spend one day a month to Pay it Forward and the sense of joy it gives them is immeasurable.  Acts of Random Kindness or Paying it Forward, however you want to put it is not only a gift to the receiver it is also a gift to the giver.  I was told this story by a dear friend of mine who had to travel for his job, and it was one of those situations where he had to make the same trip at least once a month for extended amount of time.  He found this pub/restaurant that he really enjoyed going to when he was in town and he saw a couple that he had seen on previous trips and he decided to pay it forward and paid for their meal and drinks.  He did this without them having any knowledge of the gift until after he had paid the bill and left the restaurant. He did not expect for them to thank him or give him a ticker tape parade, but he walked away with that wonderful sense of joy from giving. 
I am not suggesting that this show of kindness has to be monetary, many times that is not even what is needed.  But a kind word of encouragement during a time of crisis, a hug just to let someone know that you care and you are there for them could be the very thing they need at the time.  Taking the time to listen because sometimes you have to let that person vent in order for them to gain clarity on a situation.  Taking the time out of your schedule and giving that person a call who you know is going through something, and making them laugh at one of your best corny jokes can be all it takes to lift their spirits.  Just think not one penny spent but the joy it gives you and the receiver is worth millions.

What are some Acts of Random Kindess that you have either experienced or done for someone?

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