Random Acts of Kindness

Let me start by saying this--I am by nature a selfish person. It is not my nature to be friendly with strangers, and I generally do not put the feelings of others before my own. I realize that about myself, so I am working on changing. I am starting a new "program" for myself called Random Acts of Kindness Day.

About a month ago, I really had a lady on my mind. She was somebody that we met about 3 years ago, not too long after we moved here. I would see her occasionally out in town and say hello, but that was really about it. Anyway, I just could not get her off my mind. For about a week I thought about her every day. Finally I decided to do something about it. I went bought her some flowers and a card and delivered them to her office. I had no idea if she would be there or not, but she was. We talked for about 10 minutes and she seemed genuinely happy that somebody thought of her.

After I left, I started thinking of some of the unexpected blessings I have received along the way. There are a couple of instances that still stick out in my mind. One was when I was working my first "grown-up" job and somebody called my boss and told him what a wonderful employee I was. I remember that one well, because I probably wasn't the best employee. I remember thinking that I always needed to be kind to people, because they really do notice. Another time, somebody paid for our meal anonymously. There have been many other blessings along the way, and it always makes you feel special.

I have decided I want to be on the giving end as well. It makes you feel good when you do something nice for somebody else. It also helps cheer you up if you are feeling down. I am not sure how often I will do these Random Acts of Kindness Days. Originally I thought maybe once a week, but we will see. But, I do want to make it a point to do something regularly, whether it be weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.

Yesterday I chose 3 offices/businesses that I have dealt with recently, and just took them some snacks with a simple Thank You note attached. It was good to make people who are often under appreciated smile.

I found some RAK ideas here. Some cost nothing at all but a little time. =)

Does anybody have a good Random Act of Kindness story or idea? Anybody want to join in and start being a blessing to others??