We are in the middle of “Random Acts of Kindness Week.” In Bluffton, it is from Feb. 13 to 19. So you still have time to participate. The goal is to dedicate one entire week of the calendar year to focus solely on random acts of kindness. The purpose of this special week is simply to encourage people to give and to receive an act of kindness. And who among us couldn’t use a little kindness right now?
There are so many ways and so many reasons to be kind. Don’t you wish someone would shovel the snow in your driveway? Wouldn’t it be nice if someone surprised you with a fresh flower? I bet you would be grateful if someone brought you a plate of homemade cookies or a hot cup of coffee. Don’t you wonder sometimes, especially during “Random Acts of Kindness Week” if anyone will pause long enough and think to be kind to you?
Everyone could benefit from receiving an act of kindness. But giving an act of kindness has benefits as well. The one who gives feels happier. The one who gives feels calmer. The one who gives experiences less physical pain. The one who gives has a longer lasting sense of emotional well-being.
There are many benefits to giving an act of kindness. Stress levels have been known to decrease. Positive attitudes have been known to increase. Even the “memory” of a previous kind act can bring a smile to one’s face. A boost of self-worth. An optimistic moment. A joyful connection. Giving an act of kindness can even strengthen one’s immune system.
There is still time to apply the “power of nice”. Why not begin by doing some “good deeds” right in your own home? Why not improve the “heart health” of your own family? Here are some “kindness” suggestions just to get you started. Right where you are, at home.
For the adults:
• Pour a bubble bath for your spouse.
• Buy a loved one some flowers.
• Read a book out loud to your children.
• Write a note of appreciation to a family member.
• Buy your pet a special treat, just because.
• Serve healthy foods for one whole day.
• Offer to listen to your child’s style of music.
• Bring a cup of coffee or tea to your spouse.
• Share in doing the household chores.
* Practice etiquette and good manners.
For the children:
• Walk the dog.
• Be kind, even when it’s difficult.
• Make homemade cards for your family.
• Say “please” and “thank you”.
• Help a sibling with a chore.
• Dust and vacuum your bedroom.
• Write a “thank you” note to your parents.
• Help unload the groceries from the car.
• Help take the trash out.
• Offer to “share” and “take turns”.
Take a moment to brainstorm and think of even more “random acts of kindness”. Start at home. Then expand your kindness to your school, your workplace, your own neighborhood, and your community. You will be amazed at the positive effect your simple act of kindness can have on someone. It might even take “Random Acts of Kindness Week” to a whole new level.
