“It’s a troublesome world. All the people who are in it are troubled with troubles almost every minute. You ought to be thankful, a whole heaping lot, for the places and people you’re lucky you’re not.”
-Dr. Seuss
This Dr. Seuss quote was written long before the isolation and fear that accompanies the Pandemic and recent world events. Yet even then, the world needed more kindness, forgiveness, and love. Today, more than ever, it is imperative that we use the power of our words and actions to create positivity, peace, and love and reject negativity, war, and hatred.
Love and kindness are all about customer service. Yet, we often offer the very best customer service to clients, associates, colleagues…even strangers. Many demonstrate kindness to people far from their hearts and reject those near and dear. Oftentimes, we show more interest and attention to others and ignore the ones that need our love and attention the most. In these troubled times, wouldn’t it be great if we could spread joy and kindness by doing little things that mean a lot to all?
Random acts of kindness are deliberate, selfless actions that bring happiness to others without consideration of reciprocity. The recipient need not be a stranger and may be someone that lives with you or right next door. Someone that may appreciate your kind deed so much that they carry out the kindness to someone else. This domino effect is only possible if we each seize the opportunity to do good, right here and now.
Can we make the world a better place? You bet!
Here are five practical, actionable steps that can help show kindness and love to all.
- Offer a smile, a compliment, and words of encouragement.
- Send a handmade card, note, or love letter.
- Nurture compassion by listening empathetically without interrupting.
- Visit, call, write, email, or text someone to show you care.
- Share stories, memories, unwanted or excess items, photos, books, articles, etc. Give generously and from the heart.
There is hope that the steps shine some light. Now here is a quote that’s quite right!
“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not!” -Dr. Seuss
written by Ria Ruane, MA, RMHCI