Random Acts of Kindness Day

Feb. 17 is Random Acts of Kindness Day, an annual event which occurs during Random Acts of Kindness Week.

Let’s face it. Most of us are overworked, underpaid and just plain stressed out. Sometimes all it takes is a smile, a kind word or gesture to a friend, a neighbor or a stranger. A simple heartfelt compliment can really brighten someone’s day. And a simple act of kindness doesn’t cost a thing – just a moment out of time. A spontaneous pat on the back or gentle hug can cheer up someone who is having a bad day. After all, we all could use a hug, a compliment or word of encouragement, couldn’t we? And a simple act of kindness not only makes someone else feel better, it will make you feel better, too!

By taking a single moment out of our busy and hectic lives to do something nice for someone else, sets a great example for others and sends a great message to children too.

Simple Random Acts of Kindness Day Ideas

• Give a heartfelt compliment to a co-worker. Comment on his or her hair style or outfit.

• Volunteer your time at a local animal shelter or better yet, adopt an animal in need.

• If you are in line at the store, let the person behind you go first.

• Instead of pushing your grocery cart back where it belongs, return two carts instead.

• Visit a local retirement center and make a new friend.

• If you are going through the drive-thru at lunch today, pay for the person’s meal or beverage behind you and ask they do the same thing for the next person. Pay it forward.

• If it’s garbage day, return your neighbor’s garbage cans back where they belong.

• If you live in a warm location, mow or rake your neighbor’s yard. If your driveway is covered in snow, shovel your neighbor’s driveway.

• If you are in the car and are at a four-way-stop, let another driver go first.

• Bake a batch of cookies and drop them off at work or at your children’s school.

• Send a free electronic greeting reminding others about todays special day.