Day 331
A goal in doing this project was for my family to become more active volunteers. We have had some success toward this, working in a community garden this summer, caretaking a WWII memorial near our home, and ringing the bell for the Salvation Army around Christmas time.
On thing I have taken on with a some (well, slightly more than some) regret is the scheduling of the snack bar volunteers for the town youth basketball league. This has involved me sending out emails weekly, sometimes daily begging folks to fill slots. And jumping in to cover when there are last minute cancellations.
So it was with great joy last Saturday when, after sending my last request for volunteers, I sold my last bottle of Gatorade during my last shift of the season. I thought.
I got the call tonight that the "playoffs" are next weekend, and the expectation is that the snack bar will be up and fully operational. Really? Isn't the thrill of the competition enough without having donuts and pizza available?
Apparently not. I'm sending out just one more plea for help. If it shows up in you inbox, please don't delete it, just say you'll pick up a shift.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
It's That Time Again....Flowers For A Stranger
Day 330
Today was the 27th, which was of course, Give Flowers to a Stranger Day. It snuck right up on me this month. My younger son had the unfortunate luck to be with me for the second day in a row during my act of kindness. Mortified as he was when I informed him that it was GFTASD, I do believe he was slightly amused when I ran from the car into the fast food restaurant with my bouquet and the note informing the finder that the flowers were hers (or his) to keep.
Or perhaps he was just relieved that I let him stay in the car. No matter. No amount of pre-adolescent attitude was going to ruin my holiday. It was another successful Give Flowers to a Stranger Day.
***********
New to this blog? Wondering what GFTASD is? It is celebrated on the 27th of every month. Some history of the holiday can be found in these previous entries.
Monthly Feature
Flowers For a Stranger
Flowers Anonymous
Controversial Kindness
It's Sweeping the Nation!
Today was the 27th, which was of course, Give Flowers to a Stranger Day. It snuck right up on me this month. My younger son had the unfortunate luck to be with me for the second day in a row during my act of kindness. Mortified as he was when I informed him that it was GFTASD, I do believe he was slightly amused when I ran from the car into the fast food restaurant with my bouquet and the note informing the finder that the flowers were hers (or his) to keep.
Or perhaps he was just relieved that I let him stay in the car. No matter. No amount of pre-adolescent attitude was going to ruin my holiday. It was another successful Give Flowers to a Stranger Day.
***********
New to this blog? Wondering what GFTASD is? It is celebrated on the 27th of every month. Some history of the holiday can be found in these previous entries.
Monthly Feature
Flowers For a Stranger
Flowers Anonymous
Controversial Kindness
It's Sweeping the Nation!
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Bagging Kindness
Day 329
“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” Aesop
I saw this quote on a reusable grocery bag today, on sale for a dollar. I said to my younger son who was with me “Don't you think that is some sort of sign that we should buy that bag and do something kind with it?” “No” he replied, rather emphatically. “Are you worried I'll embarrass you?” I asked. “Yes” he replied, equally emphatically.
Not to be deterred by his lack of enthusiasm and fear of humiliation, I purchased the bag and asked him to write a note to go along with it. I promised I would not involve him in the actual delivery of the act of kindness. The note read “This bag is for you. Just consider it a random act of kindness.” I couldn't have said it better myself.
On our way out after paying for our groceries, I quietly gave the bag and note to the young woman bagging, and asked her to please give it to the next person who came through. We made a clean getaway and never looked back.
“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” Aesop
I saw this quote on a reusable grocery bag today, on sale for a dollar. I said to my younger son who was with me “Don't you think that is some sort of sign that we should buy that bag and do something kind with it?” “No” he replied, rather emphatically. “Are you worried I'll embarrass you?” I asked. “Yes” he replied, equally emphatically.
Not to be deterred by his lack of enthusiasm and fear of humiliation, I purchased the bag and asked him to write a note to go along with it. I promised I would not involve him in the actual delivery of the act of kindness. The note read “This bag is for you. Just consider it a random act of kindness.” I couldn't have said it better myself.
On our way out after paying for our groceries, I quietly gave the bag and note to the young woman bagging, and asked her to please give it to the next person who came through. We made a clean getaway and never looked back.
Friday, February 25, 2011
The Cynicism Road
Day 328
My husband and I went to buy our kids some gear they needed for karate today. We were apprehensive about starting down the road of allowing the kids to participate in this sport, in part, because of the cost. Each time we need to buy a new piece of equipment, we re-visit our apprehension and resign ourselves to the fact that we are continuing down the road and aren't going to stop as long as the boys are enjoying the trip.
It was a store we had not been to before and we were surprised and happy to find that the man who helped us was knowledgeable, helpful, and it didn't seem like he was there only to separate us from our money. I suppose we had walked in there with a some cynicism, but we left feeling like we had met a nice guy doing his part to have a small local business in a time when there are so many factors working against such a thing.
We thanked him for his help and when we got home, we made sure to go on line and write a few positive reviews. It was the least we could do, for all the other cynics out there.
My husband and I went to buy our kids some gear they needed for karate today. We were apprehensive about starting down the road of allowing the kids to participate in this sport, in part, because of the cost. Each time we need to buy a new piece of equipment, we re-visit our apprehension and resign ourselves to the fact that we are continuing down the road and aren't going to stop as long as the boys are enjoying the trip.
It was a store we had not been to before and we were surprised and happy to find that the man who helped us was knowledgeable, helpful, and it didn't seem like he was there only to separate us from our money. I suppose we had walked in there with a some cynicism, but we left feeling like we had met a nice guy doing his part to have a small local business in a time when there are so many factors working against such a thing.
We thanked him for his help and when we got home, we made sure to go on line and write a few positive reviews. It was the least we could do, for all the other cynics out there.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Nice Chatting With You
Day 327
Be kind to strangers. That is sort of the theme of this whole project, so that just what I did today.
In line at the store getting the last few items to celebrate my son's upcoming birthday, I noticed the woman in back of me with three young children buying what was, and continues to be, one of my son's favorite movies, Ponyo. I told this to the woman and she looked pleased/relieved with her selection. I then started chatting with the little girl, who looked about three, about how much my boys loved the movie. She introduced me to her one year old twin sisters in the carriage, and then she informed me that she as a twin brother and he is the only boy in the family. Now, I was fairly certain that the woman with them was the grandmother but, erring on the side of caution, I commented about how challenging it must be for her with four young children. And she said actually she was their grandmother, and confirmed that yes, four children under three was difficult, but a great joy and that she helped out whenever she could. And she thanked me for my movie review.
As acts of kindness go, this was not big, or fancy, or even that interesting. But it is fun for me to notice a slight change in myself over this past year of living kindly. I've found that sometimes, I actually enjoy chatting with people I don't know. I sincerely hope that they have enjoyed chatting back.
Be kind to strangers. That is sort of the theme of this whole project, so that just what I did today.
In line at the store getting the last few items to celebrate my son's upcoming birthday, I noticed the woman in back of me with three young children buying what was, and continues to be, one of my son's favorite movies, Ponyo. I told this to the woman and she looked pleased/relieved with her selection. I then started chatting with the little girl, who looked about three, about how much my boys loved the movie. She introduced me to her one year old twin sisters in the carriage, and then she informed me that she as a twin brother and he is the only boy in the family. Now, I was fairly certain that the woman with them was the grandmother but, erring on the side of caution, I commented about how challenging it must be for her with four young children. And she said actually she was their grandmother, and confirmed that yes, four children under three was difficult, but a great joy and that she helped out whenever she could. And she thanked me for my movie review.
As acts of kindness go, this was not big, or fancy, or even that interesting. But it is fun for me to notice a slight change in myself over this past year of living kindly. I've found that sometimes, I actually enjoy chatting with people I don't know. I sincerely hope that they have enjoyed chatting back.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Gotcha!
Day 326
We're an adoptive family, so every year we celebrate each day we “got” our boys. Today, February 23rd is my older son's “Gotcha Day” so he picked the restaurant. The four of us went out, along with my brother and my niece, and my older son was happy there were no restrictions on what he orderd, being his day all. Steak it was.
Unfortunately, it was really lousy steak with no real flavor. And no one else was happy with their meal either. Except for my younger son, who could not have been more thrilled with his macaroni and cheese. It was nice and orange, just the way he likes it.
But the waiter was helpful and friendly, and kept the soda coming (another parental concession to Gotcha Day). So when the question was posed by my son, can't we complain about the food ,the adults pondered this. We all came to the conclusion; it was really the matter of a not very good chef. And complaining wouldn't really change that. And I reminded my son that the point of of our evening out was to celebrate that we were all together as a family, tasteless steak or no.
We thanked the waiter, said everything was fine when he asked, and left a nice tip. Sometimes kindness simply means appreciating the intended effort. I wonder however if by not saying something were we being kind to the future diners of this restaurant?
We're an adoptive family, so every year we celebrate each day we “got” our boys. Today, February 23rd is my older son's “Gotcha Day” so he picked the restaurant. The four of us went out, along with my brother and my niece, and my older son was happy there were no restrictions on what he orderd, being his day all. Steak it was.
Unfortunately, it was really lousy steak with no real flavor. And no one else was happy with their meal either. Except for my younger son, who could not have been more thrilled with his macaroni and cheese. It was nice and orange, just the way he likes it.
But the waiter was helpful and friendly, and kept the soda coming (another parental concession to Gotcha Day). So when the question was posed by my son, can't we complain about the food ,the adults pondered this. We all came to the conclusion; it was really the matter of a not very good chef. And complaining wouldn't really change that. And I reminded my son that the point of of our evening out was to celebrate that we were all together as a family, tasteless steak or no.
We thanked the waiter, said everything was fine when he asked, and left a nice tip. Sometimes kindness simply means appreciating the intended effort. I wonder however if by not saying something were we being kind to the future diners of this restaurant?
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
A Lifetime of Blue Jeans For Kindness
Day 325
I bought my son a t-shirt today (Batman) for his upcoming birthday and the cashier said that, if I filled out an online survey and mentioned his name, he would get some kind of prize. Well, if you tell something like that to someone who has committed to a daily act of kindness to a stranger, it's pretty much a guarantee that it will get done.
It was , without a doubt, one of the longest surveys I have ever filled out. I was even required to name what stores I would most likely buy my next 10 pairs of blue jeans from, and it would not accept the answer that I'm fairly certain I am not going to buy 10 more pairs in my lifetime. In the name of kindness, I lied. I sure hope “Nate” appreciates it.
I bought my son a t-shirt today (Batman) for his upcoming birthday and the cashier said that, if I filled out an online survey and mentioned his name, he would get some kind of prize. Well, if you tell something like that to someone who has committed to a daily act of kindness to a stranger, it's pretty much a guarantee that it will get done.
It was , without a doubt, one of the longest surveys I have ever filled out. I was even required to name what stores I would most likely buy my next 10 pairs of blue jeans from, and it would not accept the answer that I'm fairly certain I am not going to buy 10 more pairs in my lifetime. In the name of kindness, I lied. I sure hope “Nate” appreciates it.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Kindness or Friendliness. What Came First?
Day 324
I had to return some clothes to the store today. I had bought them for my kids when I brought them home they didn't fit. Because my boys hate trying on clothes, and I strongly dislike being with them when they are trying things on and complaining about it, I am returning items to this particular store on a semi-regular basis. I always think of the woman at the return desk as somewhat unpleasant and grumpy, but if you asked me for a specific reason, I couldn't give you one.
With thoughts of kindness on my mind, I made an extra effort to be pleasant and chat as I was making my exchange today. And, what should come as a shock to no one who has been following this blog, the woman was friendly and pleasant right back.
Was she this way because of my effort? Or did my assumptions about her grumpiness color my previous interactions with her? Either way, all indications are be kind, period.
I had to return some clothes to the store today. I had bought them for my kids when I brought them home they didn't fit. Because my boys hate trying on clothes, and I strongly dislike being with them when they are trying things on and complaining about it, I am returning items to this particular store on a semi-regular basis. I always think of the woman at the return desk as somewhat unpleasant and grumpy, but if you asked me for a specific reason, I couldn't give you one.
With thoughts of kindness on my mind, I made an extra effort to be pleasant and chat as I was making my exchange today. And, what should come as a shock to no one who has been following this blog, the woman was friendly and pleasant right back.
Was she this way because of my effort? Or did my assumptions about her grumpiness color my previous interactions with her? Either way, all indications are be kind, period.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Clean Up In Aisle Five
Day 323
While grocery shopping today, I picked up a package of sugary fruit drinks, the type I swore I would never buy for my kids but I do anyway, and it started leaking all over me and all over the floor. I quickly put it down and grabbed another package, this one leak free. As I put the box in my cart and continued with my shopping, I realized that the kind thing to do was not to just walk away, but to let someone know so the sticky mess didn't spread.
I let the young man at the customer service desk know about the "spill in aisle five" and resumed my shopping. I was reminded once again that sometimes doing the kind thing is just doing the right thing.
While grocery shopping today, I picked up a package of sugary fruit drinks, the type I swore I would never buy for my kids but I do anyway, and it started leaking all over me and all over the floor. I quickly put it down and grabbed another package, this one leak free. As I put the box in my cart and continued with my shopping, I realized that the kind thing to do was not to just walk away, but to let someone know so the sticky mess didn't spread.
I let the young man at the customer service desk know about the "spill in aisle five" and resumed my shopping. I was reminded once again that sometimes doing the kind thing is just doing the right thing.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Kind Of A Nice Kid
Day 323
I worked my shift this morning at the snack bar where my son plays basketball for the town league. It is not a very labor intensive endeavor; an hour of sitting and reading interrupted occasionally by a donut or Gatorade sale. While I was there, some kids were playing in the lobby. A boy about my younger son's age, ten, was engaged in some sort of pretend game with a girl who looked around two. He was so incredibly gentle, playful and protective of her all at once, it was a joy to watch them interact together.
As I was leaving I saw the boy walking out with his mother. I went over to them and told the mom what an impressive son she had, and what a great time I had watching him play. She beamed and told me that the little girl was her friends daughter, and that her son just adored her.
I know that I love hearing good things about my kids, so I was fairly certain that it was an act of kindness sure to be appreciated.
I worked my shift this morning at the snack bar where my son plays basketball for the town league. It is not a very labor intensive endeavor; an hour of sitting and reading interrupted occasionally by a donut or Gatorade sale. While I was there, some kids were playing in the lobby. A boy about my younger son's age, ten, was engaged in some sort of pretend game with a girl who looked around two. He was so incredibly gentle, playful and protective of her all at once, it was a joy to watch them interact together.
As I was leaving I saw the boy walking out with his mother. I went over to them and told the mom what an impressive son she had, and what a great time I had watching him play. She beamed and told me that the little girl was her friends daughter, and that her son just adored her.
I know that I love hearing good things about my kids, so I was fairly certain that it was an act of kindness sure to be appreciated.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Remembering to Recycle
Day 322
Today I was kind to the environment by recycling our number 5 plastic containers (yogurt and such). While I do think recycling should be part of everyone's routine and not an act of kindness per say, I'm counting this because of the steps taken in order to complete the act. Our town doesn't recycle this type of plastic, so the first step is to set it aside from the other recyclables. Then we have to put it in a bag and put it in my car to be brought to the store near my office that does accept this type of plastic to recycle. Next is the trickiest step of all. I have to REMEMBER to take it out of my car, into the store and then deposit it to the correct bin. Because this particular step is so difficult, I have had three or four bags rattling around my car for some time now.
But today I did it! I went into the store for a couple of items AND remembered to bring them in with me. I'm considering it kind to the environment, kind to my car, and kind to anyone who rides in my car and no longer has to be seated among the bulging bags of yogurt containers.
Today I was kind to the environment by recycling our number 5 plastic containers (yogurt and such). While I do think recycling should be part of everyone's routine and not an act of kindness per say, I'm counting this because of the steps taken in order to complete the act. Our town doesn't recycle this type of plastic, so the first step is to set it aside from the other recyclables. Then we have to put it in a bag and put it in my car to be brought to the store near my office that does accept this type of plastic to recycle. Next is the trickiest step of all. I have to REMEMBER to take it out of my car, into the store and then deposit it to the correct bin. Because this particular step is so difficult, I have had three or four bags rattling around my car for some time now.
But today I did it! I went into the store for a couple of items AND remembered to bring them in with me. I'm considering it kind to the environment, kind to my car, and kind to anyone who rides in my car and no longer has to be seated among the bulging bags of yogurt containers.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Cleanliness Is Next To....Kindness
Day 321
The recent weather, snow and now a thaw, has left my car and I'm sure everyone elses's, filthy. I thought it would be the kind thing to do to leaves some quarters at the car wash near my house. I had to drive right by it on the way to get my boys this afternoon. If didn't have time to clean my mine, at least I could help insure someone else was driving around in a spiffy set of wheels.
Alas, I was vexed again by modern technology. The automatic wash only took credit cards. Not to be deterred, I checked out the vacuum machines. My luck, and someone else's, took a turn for the better as these machines accepted quarters. I left two dollars worth right on top where they couldn't be missed.
Truth be told, I'm a little envious of whomever it is who has the time to clean their car. These days mine is looking like a sand pile, inside and out. There is saying I've heard that cleanliness is next to godliness. If that's true I'm in a heap of trouble. But at least I helped some else get a little closer...
The recent weather, snow and now a thaw, has left my car and I'm sure everyone elses's, filthy. I thought it would be the kind thing to do to leaves some quarters at the car wash near my house. I had to drive right by it on the way to get my boys this afternoon. If didn't have time to clean my mine, at least I could help insure someone else was driving around in a spiffy set of wheels.
Alas, I was vexed again by modern technology. The automatic wash only took credit cards. Not to be deterred, I checked out the vacuum machines. My luck, and someone else's, took a turn for the better as these machines accepted quarters. I left two dollars worth right on top where they couldn't be missed.
Truth be told, I'm a little envious of whomever it is who has the time to clean their car. These days mine is looking like a sand pile, inside and out. There is saying I've heard that cleanliness is next to godliness. If that's true I'm in a heap of trouble. But at least I helped some else get a little closer...
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Pink and Maroon Kindness Brigade
Day 320
I was waiting for my husband to get out of surgery and I knew it would be be a while when the doctor explained that, in order to put the elbow back together, he would need to install a metal plate and “remove all the crumbly bits.” So I thought it best to utilize my time with an act of kindness.
I went to the hospital gift shop and bought a bottle of body lotion that smelled something like roses. Now, I'm not a flowery smelling lotion type of gal but when I used to visit my aunt in a nursing home years ago, she loved of this kind of thing. I went to the front desk to ask what the best way was to get it to a patient in the hospital who may not have any visitors to bring gifts. They directed me to the volunteer office and when I went in I was greeted by a room full of pink and maroon smocked mostly senior citizens, waiting for the assignments for the morning. I explained my quest and the woman at the desk promised to make sure the lotion was delivered.
After, when I was back in the waiting room, I noticed the smocked seniors everywhere. Delivering punch to those of us who were waiting, insuring patients and family members were getting where they needed to be, being “gophers” for the hospital staff. Here I was, with my mission to complete one act of kindness a day, and here they were, their mission to be kind all day, every day.
I didn't accept the punch, but my husband was most grateful for the good natured gentleman in the maroon smock who pushed him in the wheel chair from the post op room right to our car. And I was reminded that being kind is much more than just an act a day, it's way of being.
I was waiting for my husband to get out of surgery and I knew it would be be a while when the doctor explained that, in order to put the elbow back together, he would need to install a metal plate and “remove all the crumbly bits.” So I thought it best to utilize my time with an act of kindness.
I went to the hospital gift shop and bought a bottle of body lotion that smelled something like roses. Now, I'm not a flowery smelling lotion type of gal but when I used to visit my aunt in a nursing home years ago, she loved of this kind of thing. I went to the front desk to ask what the best way was to get it to a patient in the hospital who may not have any visitors to bring gifts. They directed me to the volunteer office and when I went in I was greeted by a room full of pink and maroon smocked mostly senior citizens, waiting for the assignments for the morning. I explained my quest and the woman at the desk promised to make sure the lotion was delivered.
After, when I was back in the waiting room, I noticed the smocked seniors everywhere. Delivering punch to those of us who were waiting, insuring patients and family members were getting where they needed to be, being “gophers” for the hospital staff. Here I was, with my mission to complete one act of kindness a day, and here they were, their mission to be kind all day, every day.
I didn't accept the punch, but my husband was most grateful for the good natured gentleman in the maroon smock who pushed him in the wheel chair from the post op room right to our car. And I was reminded that being kind is much more than just an act a day, it's way of being.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
A Debt of Kindness
Day 319
I've been driving my husband around a fair amount since he broke his elbow, and he's not thrilled about it. He is the type of guy who is always on the go, and wants to be productive. Being waited on, ferried about and told to sit down and watch a movie is not his style. Ironically, I would love to be to be ordered not to take out the garbage and to settle down for a few hours with the remote and a few dvds, but we take life as it is dealt to us.
Today I picked him up from his pre-op appointment and as we headed to school to pick up the kids, he apologized for the gazillionth time for the inconvenience he was causing me. Well, I said, there is something you could do that would helpful. He was enthusiastic about being the helper rather than the helpee and he asked what it was, thus falling right into my trap. “How about we stop for coffee and you get me a cup and one for a stranger too?” Trapped. Like a kind rat.
He reluctantly agreed. It's not that he is not kind, it is just that this type of thing can feel rather awkward.
After we got ours (I had to carry them of course) he stayed behind and gave the cashier money with instructions to buy a coffee for the next person who looked like they could use a free cup. The cashier responded brightly “Do I get to choose?” “Absolutely!” responded my husband.
I asked him how it felt (I'm a social worker, so I say things like that) and he said “Pretty good, once it was done.” Was it kind of me to leverage his feeling of indebtedness for a kind act? Probably not. But it was a little fun. And in the end, I can say a good time was had by all.
I've been driving my husband around a fair amount since he broke his elbow, and he's not thrilled about it. He is the type of guy who is always on the go, and wants to be productive. Being waited on, ferried about and told to sit down and watch a movie is not his style. Ironically, I would love to be to be ordered not to take out the garbage and to settle down for a few hours with the remote and a few dvds, but we take life as it is dealt to us.
Today I picked him up from his pre-op appointment and as we headed to school to pick up the kids, he apologized for the gazillionth time for the inconvenience he was causing me. Well, I said, there is something you could do that would helpful. He was enthusiastic about being the helper rather than the helpee and he asked what it was, thus falling right into my trap. “How about we stop for coffee and you get me a cup and one for a stranger too?” Trapped. Like a kind rat.
He reluctantly agreed. It's not that he is not kind, it is just that this type of thing can feel rather awkward.
After we got ours (I had to carry them of course) he stayed behind and gave the cashier money with instructions to buy a coffee for the next person who looked like they could use a free cup. The cashier responded brightly “Do I get to choose?” “Absolutely!” responded my husband.
I asked him how it felt (I'm a social worker, so I say things like that) and he said “Pretty good, once it was done.” Was it kind of me to leverage his feeling of indebtedness for a kind act? Probably not. But it was a little fun. And in the end, I can say a good time was had by all.
Monday, February 14, 2011
A Smashing Act of Kindness
Day 318
The excess of snow this winter has made parking at my office difficult. Usually it isn't a problem as there is a small lot and plenty of parking on the street. Except that now the roads are narrow because of all the snow. I, along with some other folks, volunteered to park on the street anyway so that clients coming to the office could use the lot.
Kind, yet unsatisfying as I found the driver's side view mirror in pieces on the pavement when I left the work today. I guess it was cutting it a bit too close. Here's hoping that day 319 is more rewarding....
The excess of snow this winter has made parking at my office difficult. Usually it isn't a problem as there is a small lot and plenty of parking on the street. Except that now the roads are narrow because of all the snow. I, along with some other folks, volunteered to park on the street anyway so that clients coming to the office could use the lot.
Kind, yet unsatisfying as I found the driver's side view mirror in pieces on the pavement when I left the work today. I guess it was cutting it a bit too close. Here's hoping that day 319 is more rewarding....
Sunday, February 13, 2011
The Picture of Kindness
Day 317
My younger son and I were doing some people watching in the foyer of the performing arts center, waiting to see the Lion King. A woman dressed in a beautiful black velvet gown was having her friend/boyfriend/husband, ( I did not inquire about the nature of their relationship), take pictures of her in front of the large yellow poster of the lion, of course. Then they switched and she took his picture. Much to my son's embarrassment, I offered to take one of the two of them together. They readily agreed and it was clear they appreciated the offer.
The man placed his jacket on the floor in front so he could pose with his arm around his friend. Wanting to get the perfect shot, I picked it up and handed it to my son to hold so it wouldn't be in the picture. I'm fairly certain he was willing the floor to swallow him up at that point.
Thankfully, he loved the show so much, that by the end of the evening, my act of kindness was just a distant memory.
My younger son and I were doing some people watching in the foyer of the performing arts center, waiting to see the Lion King. A woman dressed in a beautiful black velvet gown was having her friend/boyfriend/husband, ( I did not inquire about the nature of their relationship), take pictures of her in front of the large yellow poster of the lion, of course. Then they switched and she took his picture. Much to my son's embarrassment, I offered to take one of the two of them together. They readily agreed and it was clear they appreciated the offer.
The man placed his jacket on the floor in front so he could pose with his arm around his friend. Wanting to get the perfect shot, I picked it up and handed it to my son to hold so it wouldn't be in the picture. I'm fairly certain he was willing the floor to swallow him up at that point.
Thankfully, he loved the show so much, that by the end of the evening, my act of kindness was just a distant memory.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
A Fine Kind Act
Day 316
I needed to return a library book today that was over due. And it was book that I had borrowed from a friend, so my plan was to make sure I paid the fine when I dropped it off. I got to the library at 9:30 to find that it opened at 10:00. And I wasn't going to be able to come back later. What to do...?
I think my kindness mission has enhanced my skills in thinking outside the box . I attached three dollars to the book with a note to please pay the fine, which was well under a dollar (it was only 6 days late) and to please use the extra money to pay the fine for the next person who was late returning a book.
From daily fine to daily act of kindness.
I needed to return a library book today that was over due. And it was book that I had borrowed from a friend, so my plan was to make sure I paid the fine when I dropped it off. I got to the library at 9:30 to find that it opened at 10:00. And I wasn't going to be able to come back later. What to do...?
I think my kindness mission has enhanced my skills in thinking outside the box . I attached three dollars to the book with a note to please pay the fine, which was well under a dollar (it was only 6 days late) and to please use the extra money to pay the fine for the next person who was late returning a book.
From daily fine to daily act of kindness.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Sugar Fueled Kindness
Day 315
I'm trying to look at some of the recent stressors in our family as an opportunity. I now now have a whole new variety of venues where I can commit acts of kindness.
Today I picked up my husband and kids from school (he's a teacher, making it one stop) and then we went to the hospital so my husband could get a cat scan on his elbow before surgery next week. The boys and I went to the cafeteria to enjoy a Friday afternoon feast of soda and ice cream. While we were there we left a five dollar gift card from a local store with a note to let the finder know that it was theirs to keep, a random act of kindness.
The cafeteria was fairly empty and there was a woman cleaning tables and putting up chairs. The boys said that they hoped that she would be the finder of the card. Judging by the emptiness of the room, the chances were pretty high for their wish to come true. I was pleased that they were not only not embarrassed by my mission, as is sometimes the case, but were actually enthusiastic about the idea. Or perhaps it was the ice cream and soda high carrying them through the moment.
Either way, I'll take it.
I'm trying to look at some of the recent stressors in our family as an opportunity. I now now have a whole new variety of venues where I can commit acts of kindness.
Today I picked up my husband and kids from school (he's a teacher, making it one stop) and then we went to the hospital so my husband could get a cat scan on his elbow before surgery next week. The boys and I went to the cafeteria to enjoy a Friday afternoon feast of soda and ice cream. While we were there we left a five dollar gift card from a local store with a note to let the finder know that it was theirs to keep, a random act of kindness.
The cafeteria was fairly empty and there was a woman cleaning tables and putting up chairs. The boys said that they hoped that she would be the finder of the card. Judging by the emptiness of the room, the chances were pretty high for their wish to come true. I was pleased that they were not only not embarrassed by my mission, as is sometimes the case, but were actually enthusiastic about the idea. Or perhaps it was the ice cream and soda high carrying them through the moment.
Either way, I'll take it.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Kind Is Not Always Wise
Day 314
I was in a rush trying to get out the door at work today. I needed to pick up my husband and boys and get them to a doctor's appointment and I was cutting the commute time pretty close. As I was leaving, an elderly couple was getting out of their car to come into the building. In order to do so from the side walk they needed to cross a patch of ice about two feet wide. I asked them to wait, and I ran to my car to get some sand. Even with that, it looked like a treacherous crossing for two people with canes.
The woman went across, but her husband was more tentative. His wife shouted at him just go, there was nothing to be fearful of. I offered my assistance and he accepted. It was a slow, difficult and frightening journey for him over that two feet and it didn't help that his wife continued to berate him for being afraid. He made it across and was clearly grateful for my help.
I walked away with mixed feelings. I was glad I was there to assist, but also realized he very easily could have fallen even with my hand and my shoulder to lean on. His instincts were absolutely on target that this was too dangerous, and I couldn't help feeling that I had put him at a huge risk for a fall. Although he most likely would have done it with or without me.
I know my actions and intentions were kind, I'm just not sure if they were wise.
I was in a rush trying to get out the door at work today. I needed to pick up my husband and boys and get them to a doctor's appointment and I was cutting the commute time pretty close. As I was leaving, an elderly couple was getting out of their car to come into the building. In order to do so from the side walk they needed to cross a patch of ice about two feet wide. I asked them to wait, and I ran to my car to get some sand. Even with that, it looked like a treacherous crossing for two people with canes.
The woman went across, but her husband was more tentative. His wife shouted at him just go, there was nothing to be fearful of. I offered my assistance and he accepted. It was a slow, difficult and frightening journey for him over that two feet and it didn't help that his wife continued to berate him for being afraid. He made it across and was clearly grateful for my help.
I walked away with mixed feelings. I was glad I was there to assist, but also realized he very easily could have fallen even with my hand and my shoulder to lean on. His instincts were absolutely on target that this was too dangerous, and I couldn't help feeling that I had put him at a huge risk for a fall. Although he most likely would have done it with or without me.
I know my actions and intentions were kind, I'm just not sure if they were wise.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Kind Witches
It would be quite difficult to write about an act of kindness I committed today that would match the kindness I have received from friends. My husband's recent fall has temporarily turned our lives if not upside down, at the very least, sideways. Having one less driver (both our cars are stick shifts, requiring two hands to drive) is presenting a number of challenges as well as is having one less hand. Add to this the logistics and stress of an impending surgery (to put a pin in that broken elbow) and the challenges multiply.
The offers of help and concern for my husband have really meant a lot. I retrieved my car after it spent three days at the hospital with the assistance of my friend and she even stayed to work at chipping away the ice on the windshield. On top of that, she made us dinner to boot. How did she know that we had eaten pasta for dinner three nights straight and it was on the menu for the foreseeable future?
My husband's colleague has met us part way each morning at 6:15 to transport him and the boys to work and school. Other friends have been quick to offer rides and any assistance we might need. And a couple brave souls have even offered to lend us their car so my husband could drive with his good arm (although the doctor was firmly opposed to this idea).
I did the best I could today with my commitment and as we were leaving the doctor's office with what seemed like an armful of instructions, appointments and ace bandages, I thanked the staff and commented how each and every person we had dealt with was incredibly helpful and pleasant. One woman smiled and pointed to the sign on the wall which ironically said “The witch is in today,” which seemed to prove they were helpful, pleasant, AND had a good sense of humor.
The offers of help and concern for my husband have really meant a lot. I retrieved my car after it spent three days at the hospital with the assistance of my friend and she even stayed to work at chipping away the ice on the windshield. On top of that, she made us dinner to boot. How did she know that we had eaten pasta for dinner three nights straight and it was on the menu for the foreseeable future?
My husband's colleague has met us part way each morning at 6:15 to transport him and the boys to work and school. Other friends have been quick to offer rides and any assistance we might need. And a couple brave souls have even offered to lend us their car so my husband could drive with his good arm (although the doctor was firmly opposed to this idea).
I did the best I could today with my commitment and as we were leaving the doctor's office with what seemed like an armful of instructions, appointments and ace bandages, I thanked the staff and commented how each and every person we had dealt with was incredibly helpful and pleasant. One woman smiled and pointed to the sign on the wall which ironically said “The witch is in today,” which seemed to prove they were helpful, pleasant, AND had a good sense of humor.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
The Road To Kindness Can Be Slippery
Day 312
Given my husband's recent fall on the ice and subsequent broken elbow, I have been using an abundance of caution in dealing with the ice that seems everywhere now that I know what havoc it can cause. A supply of sand and salt is now in the car, just ready to convert any icy surface to a walkable one.
I had the chance to use it not once but twice today, making the world safe for pedestrians wherever I went.
Given my husband's recent fall on the ice and subsequent broken elbow, I have been using an abundance of caution in dealing with the ice that seems everywhere now that I know what havoc it can cause. A supply of sand and salt is now in the car, just ready to convert any icy surface to a walkable one.
I had the chance to use it not once but twice today, making the world safe for pedestrians wherever I went.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Receiving Kindness
Day 311
My focus for kindness today was on my husband. He broke his elbow yesterday and I was feeling a tad guilty because he drove himself to the hospital. I was kind enough to pick him up and bring him home though...
But it seems there is enough to do to make up for it since he can't drive and is at half capacity for quite a few other things. I stopped by the store on my way home from work to find him something warm to wear that would fit over the wrapped arm and sling. As I was in the check out line another register opened up and the man in front of me gestured for me to go ahead of him. I said no that's OK, but insisted, saying I had only a few things and he had more. The woman in back of me commented how nice it was to see someone being so gracious and kind.
I told her that I couldn't agree more!
My focus for kindness today was on my husband. He broke his elbow yesterday and I was feeling a tad guilty because he drove himself to the hospital. I was kind enough to pick him up and bring him home though...
But it seems there is enough to do to make up for it since he can't drive and is at half capacity for quite a few other things. I stopped by the store on my way home from work to find him something warm to wear that would fit over the wrapped arm and sling. As I was in the check out line another register opened up and the man in front of me gestured for me to go ahead of him. I said no that's OK, but insisted, saying I had only a few things and he had more. The woman in back of me commented how nice it was to see someone being so gracious and kind.
I told her that I couldn't agree more!
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Kindness Should Begin At Home
Day 310
My husband took a good spill this morning when walking to get the paper. Rain in the middle of the night, then freezing temperatures created a driveway that looked like a skating rink. So top on our list of to do's was to get additional salt and sand.
When we arrived at the hardware store it was apparent that many folks were in the same boat, as we grabbed the last four bags of salt available. Just as we were about to pay, a woman came complaining about her icy walkway and was told that the salt was sold out. My husband and I looked at each other and decided we could make do with less, and gave her two of our four. She was grateful, as was the woman running the store, since it was one less person she would have to break the news to that they were out of salt for the day.
At home it was a team effort-my husband and I, our sons and their friend who had stayed over- to get our very long driveway salted and sanded. After completing the job, we came in for lunch and also to look at my husband's elbow, the one he landed on when he fell this morning. From the swelling, it was apparent that a trip to the emergency room was in order.
He insisted he could drive himself, and I let him, rationalizing the boys had a friend over and the logistics of getting him home and our boys somewhere other than home alone would be complicated. I did suspect, somewhere in the back of my mind, that letting him drive might not be the kind thing to do.
So when I got the call to pick him up at the hospital because his elbow was broken and he was told driving was out of the question, I had to stop and think about this commitment I have made to kindness. Perhaps in the future, I can focus on kindness to family as well kindness to strangers.
My husband took a good spill this morning when walking to get the paper. Rain in the middle of the night, then freezing temperatures created a driveway that looked like a skating rink. So top on our list of to do's was to get additional salt and sand.
When we arrived at the hardware store it was apparent that many folks were in the same boat, as we grabbed the last four bags of salt available. Just as we were about to pay, a woman came complaining about her icy walkway and was told that the salt was sold out. My husband and I looked at each other and decided we could make do with less, and gave her two of our four. She was grateful, as was the woman running the store, since it was one less person she would have to break the news to that they were out of salt for the day.
At home it was a team effort-my husband and I, our sons and their friend who had stayed over- to get our very long driveway salted and sanded. After completing the job, we came in for lunch and also to look at my husband's elbow, the one he landed on when he fell this morning. From the swelling, it was apparent that a trip to the emergency room was in order.
He insisted he could drive himself, and I let him, rationalizing the boys had a friend over and the logistics of getting him home and our boys somewhere other than home alone would be complicated. I did suspect, somewhere in the back of my mind, that letting him drive might not be the kind thing to do.
So when I got the call to pick him up at the hospital because his elbow was broken and he was told driving was out of the question, I had to stop and think about this commitment I have made to kindness. Perhaps in the future, I can focus on kindness to family as well kindness to strangers.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Calories For Kindness
Day 309
I had about 20 minutes of extra time today before I had to pick up my son from his art class. After reviewing in my mind what I could do in that amount of time, I narrowed it down to walking to get some exercise or buy myself a treat. I went with the latter.
I got an awesome orange chocolate cookie at the cafe across from the building where the class was being held. And while I was there, I gave the woman who waited on me a couple dollars and asked her to buy a treat for the next person who came in after I left. She was initially surprised and commented what a nice gesture it was. She then added “And I'm going to do that for someone too.”
It was then that I knew that I made the right choice, kindness over exercise. I'll walk a few extra steps tomorrow.
Friday, February 4, 2011
And The Most Popular Act Of Kindness Is...
Day 308
If I were to write the most frequent suggestions I've received for random acts of kindness to fulfill my daily commitment at the top of the list would be.......put money in a parking meter for someone. Well here is day 308 and I've finally done it.
I had to go downtown to the courthouse for work today. It's in an area that is usually quite difficult to find a parking space. When circling the block hoping for that elusive spot, it is not uncommon to pass the meter maid also circling, giving out tickets as she goes.
Today it was just meant to be, as I found a place to park almost immediately AND I happened to have a surplus of quarters in my purse. So I was good to go for two hours, and made sure the two cars next to me were safe for at least an hour more. Sadly, as I walked into courthouse I passed a row of four cars sporting orange tickets. Alas, I did what I could.
And perhaps it was also kind to insure the meter maid achieved her quota for the day.
If I were to write the most frequent suggestions I've received for random acts of kindness to fulfill my daily commitment at the top of the list would be.......put money in a parking meter for someone. Well here is day 308 and I've finally done it.
I had to go downtown to the courthouse for work today. It's in an area that is usually quite difficult to find a parking space. When circling the block hoping for that elusive spot, it is not uncommon to pass the meter maid also circling, giving out tickets as she goes.
Today it was just meant to be, as I found a place to park almost immediately AND I happened to have a surplus of quarters in my purse. So I was good to go for two hours, and made sure the two cars next to me were safe for at least an hour more. Sadly, as I walked into courthouse I passed a row of four cars sporting orange tickets. Alas, I did what I could.
And perhaps it was also kind to insure the meter maid achieved her quota for the day.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
40% Discount on Kindness
Day 307
I stopped by a craft store this evening after work and as I was leaving, I wondered what I would do if an opportunity for an act of kindness didn't present itself before I arrived home. And just as I was thinking this, I noticed a young woman trying to scrape snow and ice off the windshield of her car with her hands. Apparently while she was at work all day, the snow had slid off her roof and cemented itself to the windshield.
Quick as you could say “kind” I was in my car and back with a couple of ice scrapers. As I helped her get the car cleaned off, she stepped away for a second and quietly said something to her friend who was gathering shopping carts from the lot. She came back to scraping and I wondered what she had said to the young man. She didn't seem as happy with my help as I thought she would be, although I'm not exactly sure what I was expecting.
As we finished I told her to keep the ice scraper (the cheap plastic one, I held onto the good one with the metal blade; I'm not THAT kind). And as I was starting to walk away her friend came out from inside the store and handed me a crumpled 40% percent off coupon and said “This was all we could find to give you.” It became apparent that the young woman had sent him on a mission. I smiled and told that was very nice and he replied “There should be more people like you around.”
Perhaps the young woman didn't seem as happy as I expected because she was concerned about how to repay me. Or maybe she was just shy. But it seems my gesture was appreciated. And I am hopeful if she sees a stranger in need of some kindness, the gesture will be passed along.
I stopped by a craft store this evening after work and as I was leaving, I wondered what I would do if an opportunity for an act of kindness didn't present itself before I arrived home. And just as I was thinking this, I noticed a young woman trying to scrape snow and ice off the windshield of her car with her hands. Apparently while she was at work all day, the snow had slid off her roof and cemented itself to the windshield.
Quick as you could say “kind” I was in my car and back with a couple of ice scrapers. As I helped her get the car cleaned off, she stepped away for a second and quietly said something to her friend who was gathering shopping carts from the lot. She came back to scraping and I wondered what she had said to the young man. She didn't seem as happy with my help as I thought she would be, although I'm not exactly sure what I was expecting.
As we finished I told her to keep the ice scraper (the cheap plastic one, I held onto the good one with the metal blade; I'm not THAT kind). And as I was starting to walk away her friend came out from inside the store and handed me a crumpled 40% percent off coupon and said “This was all we could find to give you.” It became apparent that the young woman had sent him on a mission. I smiled and told that was very nice and he replied “There should be more people like you around.”
Perhaps the young woman didn't seem as happy as I expected because she was concerned about how to repay me. Or maybe she was just shy. But it seems my gesture was appreciated. And I am hopeful if she sees a stranger in need of some kindness, the gesture will be passed along.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
A Kernel of Effort and a Grain for Kindness
Day 306
Home bound again due to the weather, I was in search of a way to be kind to a stranger without actually leaving the house. There is a website called freerice.com that has a word game and for every correct answer, 10 grains of rice are donated to the Word Food Program. Now I must admit, I have seen this website mentioned in several places, and I never looked at it because I was sure it was some kind of scam. The assumption being that if it was too good to be true, then it must not be.
But today, in search of a kind act that could be committed from the comfort of home, I looked at the website and checked out it's validity on Snopes.com, where it was declared TRUE that using this website results in donations of rice. Apparently the money is generated through the advertisements on the site. So today I donated rice to those in need. I will not say how much because then it will become apparent that I spent way too much time playing the very addicting word game. But it was enough to feed a few folks and to qualify as an act of kindness.
If you would like to hear about an act that required more thought than playing a word game, and shows an honest commitment to the effort it sometimes requires to be kind, please read today's entry in the blog Love Your Neighbor. It is a truly moving account of the writers determination to act kindly in order to see beyond her first impression.
Home bound again due to the weather, I was in search of a way to be kind to a stranger without actually leaving the house. There is a website called freerice.com that has a word game and for every correct answer, 10 grains of rice are donated to the Word Food Program. Now I must admit, I have seen this website mentioned in several places, and I never looked at it because I was sure it was some kind of scam. The assumption being that if it was too good to be true, then it must not be.
But today, in search of a kind act that could be committed from the comfort of home, I looked at the website and checked out it's validity on Snopes.com, where it was declared TRUE that using this website results in donations of rice. Apparently the money is generated through the advertisements on the site. So today I donated rice to those in need. I will not say how much because then it will become apparent that I spent way too much time playing the very addicting word game. But it was enough to feed a few folks and to qualify as an act of kindness.
If you would like to hear about an act that required more thought than playing a word game, and shows an honest commitment to the effort it sometimes requires to be kind, please read today's entry in the blog Love Your Neighbor. It is a truly moving account of the writers determination to act kindly in order to see beyond her first impression.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
The Survey Says Two Thumbs Up
Day 305
Last week I wrote about how my act of kindness was a complaint (Snow, Coffee and Kindness). Today, at the very same cafe I wrote about last week, I was given the opportunity to give my opinion about the employees.
When I bought my morning coffee, the young woman who waited on me handed me a slip with a website to log in and give feedback about my “experience” at this particular establishment. I was more than happy to oblige since I am there often and it seems that every person I encounter is efficient, friendly and it is just plain pleasant to be greeted by them first thing in the morning.
Well, OK, there is the one guy who seems to know everyone else's name and order except mine. I can't figure out why he knows the woman in front of me has a grande half caff soy latte and the man in back of me has a red eye iced coffee but doesn't remember I get a large bold every time. But he seems to be a hard worker and is quite good-natured. And it really isn't all about me.
When I got home this evening I went to the computer right away before I had the chance to procrastinate. For me, procrastination is the single most lethal weapon against plans to be kind. On the survey I sang the praises of the employees and said that this particular coffee shop was, without a doubt, my favorite.
It is hard to imagine that this message will get passed along and the staff rewarded in someway, but for the price of a little effort and a fight to ward off procrastination maybe, just maybe it will.
Last week I wrote about how my act of kindness was a complaint (Snow, Coffee and Kindness). Today, at the very same cafe I wrote about last week, I was given the opportunity to give my opinion about the employees.
When I bought my morning coffee, the young woman who waited on me handed me a slip with a website to log in and give feedback about my “experience” at this particular establishment. I was more than happy to oblige since I am there often and it seems that every person I encounter is efficient, friendly and it is just plain pleasant to be greeted by them first thing in the morning.
Well, OK, there is the one guy who seems to know everyone else's name and order except mine. I can't figure out why he knows the woman in front of me has a grande half caff soy latte and the man in back of me has a red eye iced coffee but doesn't remember I get a large bold every time. But he seems to be a hard worker and is quite good-natured. And it really isn't all about me.
When I got home this evening I went to the computer right away before I had the chance to procrastinate. For me, procrastination is the single most lethal weapon against plans to be kind. On the survey I sang the praises of the employees and said that this particular coffee shop was, without a doubt, my favorite.
It is hard to imagine that this message will get passed along and the staff rewarded in someway, but for the price of a little effort and a fight to ward off procrastination maybe, just maybe it will.
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