People come into our lives sometimes for long periods, and other times for only a moment. Those we remember most fondly, are usually the ones who were kindest to us. That does not necessarily include family or friends. It could be a stranger.
Sometimes the words and actions of a stranger hold more value than those of a loved one. Unlike a family member or friend, a stranger is not obligated to express kindness toward us. Most of the time their intentions are pure, without expecting anything in return. They’re not concerned with earning ‘brownie points’. They simply say or do, whatever is in their heart at that moment.
Quite often, it’s the simple gestures that make the most impact. For instance, taking a moment to hold the door open for someone, or stopping to help them pick up an item that they’ve dropped on the ground. Helping someone load their groceries into the car or helping a child to stand after they’ve fallen.
Aside from actions, the words we speak can also make a difference. One kind word may be all it takes to brighten someone’s day. A compliment made, a sincere hello, or a kind observation, can change a bad day into a wonderful one. Delaying an errand to chat with someone who is lonely or hurting, could change their entire perspective on life.
Most of us could look back over the years and share a time when a stranger touched our life. Our own personal experiences is proof that kindness is not easily forgotten. Therefore, when we show kindness toward another we may never know the full impact, but we can know with almost certainty that at the very least, it will be appreciated.
Kindness should be shown to everyone, regardless of color, social status or age. It should be shown to those who are in need, just as much as it should to those who are not. We shouldn’t be afraid or too busy to show kindness to another. What may be seen as a simple action or one insignificant word to us, may be a life changer for them.
With kindness toward others, we can offset the negativity that this world is plagued by. The opportunities are everywhere. It is our job to not miss them as they arise. One moment passed, is a moment lost. Let’s not waste it.
I love this! We can absolutely make a difference by showing kindness to people we will probably never see again. Maybe we will not know what that difference was, but by being loving, we can be sure it was a positive one. Great post! 🙂
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Thank you, Kylie. Yes, exactly. We may not know all the details, but it certainly can’t hurt to be kind to one another.
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I show kindness, but I will admit I’m not always one for pleasantries. That’s what I’m working on, is taking the time! 🙂 Great post, such a great reminder!
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I think that’s the key right there – taking the time. We are so busy and hurried throughout our day. That makes it easy to rush by someone without considering what a kind word would do. What we forget, is that the reward of helping someone is so much greater than the 2 minutes that we’re worried about sacrificing.
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Agreed!!!! And agreed.
Kindness changes no only the lives of others but of our ourselves.
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Thanks Sue! You are right. There is nothing more rewarding than giving to others.
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The universe was in tune with your post yesterday (for me anyway). I picked some roses and lavender from my garden with the intention of putting them on my desk at work. On the drive to work I had the though to give them to one of my managers (who needs cheering up). So I did. She was touched. When I got back to my desk, I pulled out my ‘thought for the day’ and it was quote by Buddha about being kind to everyone regardless of who they are.
So thank you 🙂
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That is very sweet! That is brightening news for the day. So thank you! Kindness goes a long way.
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The reason why my husband and I are so compatible, is that in the event of any sort of need by any person, we don’t even think, we step right in. It’s part of who we are. I know there are others who have to be like this. I will have to admit that if I can make it out of my house while I am suffering from a severe depressive episode, I’m stuck inside my head. I’m not even sure I can help myself.
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That is wonderful. The world needs more people like you two. Sacrificing a few minutes for someone in need should not even require a second thought.
It is hard to help others when we’re so involved in our own problems. What I’ve learned though, is that by helping others we often forget our own problems. That makes it beneficial for them and us.
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I think in many ways it can be easier to give a once off kindness to a stranger than to a member of our family.
Yet it is indeed something we remember for a long time, the kindness of strangers. Great post with plenty food for thought.
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That is true. I think that mostly has to do with over-familiarity. There is something very special about a sincere word or action from a stranger.
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Totally agree! 🙂 A great reminder for us all.
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Thanks Stormy. We all need this reminder from time to time. It’s easy to get wrapped up in our own lives and overlook the needs of others.
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Amen MeWhoAmI. My husband and I share your thoughts. Last week we received a terrible blow/news. And since then we have been on the receiving end of these kind acts and words. It truly makes a difference. Like you said, even a kind word, when needed or unexpected makes a huge difference for us. Thank you.
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We get back what we give out. The kindness being shown to you during this time is proof of that. That’s wonderful. I’m so glad that people are helping in a variety of ways. We all need that from time to time during our lives.
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We do don’t we? Which makes it seem all the more wise to be kind as possible at all times.
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Kindness is one of the most positive emotions having implication for both giver and recipient and possibly even further afield. 🙂
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Yes it is! There is nothing more humbling than receiving and nothing more rewarding that giving.
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Wonderful thoughts and a great post!
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Thank you, Cindi!
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