Share the Kindness: Local Stories of Those Giving it Forward

Life can be tough.

Every day we’re faced with things that make us worry. Maybe you just lost your job, or you or a loved one is sick. Maybe your car broke down and you don’t know how you’re going to afford the bill. Maybe you’re not sure what you want to be doing and are feeling a little lost.

That’s why it’s important that we seek out those little pockets of inspiration and kindness that make us feel like we can keep going with a smile.

A few days ago I read a story about a mom and her son “paying it forward” with good deeds and it inspired me to go out and do the same.

So today while going through a drive-thru in Oswego I decided to purchase the order of the vehicle behind me. The total wasn’t a huge amount – just under $10 – for what looked like a simple late lunch that a mom was buying her kids.

I don’t know how much that meant to her, or how much it helped out. I didn’t stick around to see her reaction when the cashier told her at the window.

But I do know that it made a difference, at least to me. It made me have that warm and fuzzy feeling that I helped someone, even just a little.

Maybe that mom will pay for the order behind her. Maybe the cashier will feel inspired to do something for a stranger. Maybe if we all shared an act of kindness the world would be just a little nicer.

So I would like to propose something to all of you. I would like you ask you all to “Share the Kindness.”

It doesn’t have to be today or tomorrow or even this week. It could be one time or twenty. It could be something you plan or something you do on a complete whim.

We all read enough news about the sad or difficult things going on. Maybe now is the time to read about people helping people and begin to feel inspired ourselves.

If you Share the Kindness or experience the action on behalf of someone else, please share your story below in the comments. Every week I’ll choose one to feature in the Patch so you can start your Monday with a dose of inspiration.  You’re also welcome to email me at natalie.stevens@patch.com.

So let’s all get out there in our communities and start to Share the Kindness.