Giving and Random Acts of Kindness This month we are focusing on a simple, enjoyable practice that can enhance your mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. The concept of random acts of kindness started in 1982 when Anne Herbert scrawled the words “practice random acts of kindness and senseless acts of beauty” on a place mat. In 1993, the book Random Acts of Kindness came out and even though we don’t hear as much about it anymore, the idea is still as good today as it was over 20 years ago. As we head again into the season of holidays, it is a perfect time to revive this practice. It’s easy to forget, amidst the rushing around associated with wonderful holiday activities, that the most memorable and meaningful gifts we give are often easy and free. And why is this a wellness challenge for us, you may ask? You may be familiar with the Bible verses that say, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35) and Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” (Luke 6:38). You may also be familiar with the Law of Attraction principle which tells us that when we give with a generous heart and an attitude of kindness, we open ourselves to receive blessings in return. Whether you are familiar with these principles or not, you have probably experienced the joy and satisfaction that comes with giving with no expectation of getting (a different energy than receiving). What we may also have received in return for our open hearted giving isn’t always clear, but be sure you did receive as it is a universal law. What I especially like about practicing random acts of kindness is that it is easy to remove the expectation of getting in return, and to focus on the giving of the gift, regardless of whether it is a smile, an action, or something that costs money. Because these acts are often “little,” it is easy to act on them quickly and spontaneously. I like to think of it this way – Spirit nudges and I follow through on it as soon as possible – what a positive way to attune to my spiritual and internal guidance system and develop it! Your wellness challenge: Your challenge is to commit an act of kindness, no matter how small, every day. Mix it up and do something for people who know you and people who don’t. Commit anonymous acts of kindness at times so the receivers have no idea who gifted them. And yes, don’t forget to treat yourself to kindness, too. Listen to your intuition and those “nudgings” and follow through. Here are some suggestions and reminders of everyday kindness that can brighten the day for both giver and receiver.
- Let that car squeeze in front of you. And maybe another. (But not too many so the driver behind you doesn’t get upset!) Likewise, let that harried shopper step in front.
- Smile at the mother with the screaming children at the mall. Better yet, baby sit for someone else so s/he can have a few hours of quiet shopping.
- Smile and offer a friendly word to the cashier after waiting twenty minutes in line.
- Take a break from your frenzied activity and read a story to your children.
- Ditto for your dogs or cats- only they’d prefer you take them for a walk or throw a toy.
- Drop a dollar into the Salvation Army bucket even if you gave somewhere else.
- Bring your neighbors or co-workers some goodies.
- Visit with someone who is alone, or invite him or her over for some holiday cheer.
- Pay the toll for the car behind you.
- Send a card to a soldier overseas. Or send a care package.
- Bring a few dog bones or cat treats to the local shelter.
- Overlook a faux pas (yours or someone else’s without criticizing)
- Offer a silent blessing to fellow shoppers and drivers as you go your way.
- Buy a gift for an angel tree child.
- Put a love note in your honey’s lunchbox. Children like little notes, too.
