The smallest acts of kindness can change someone’s life

Each one of us has the power to change someone’s life for the better.

Right now, I am reading the book HumanKind by Brad Aronson. It is a reminder that even the smallest actions can have the biggest effect on others.

We never truly know what someone is going through in their life. Something as small as saying hello, holding the door open, or simply recognizing someone as a human being. These small actions cost nothing and can truly change the trajectory of someone’s life for the better. 

Never underestimate how your actions can affect those around you. You have a choice in how you show in the world each and every day. 

The book talks about how the smallest gestures of kindness have rippling effects on your community and society. It starts with each one of us.

I will never forget a couple who was ahead of me at Target a few months ago who bought a bunch of items for complete strangers after a house fire. All they wanted to do was give back to those suffering in their community. They were not looking for anything in return and just wanted to help those in need. 

In the second chapter of the book, Aronson tells similar stories about how different people set examples in their lives and how these examples not only changed someone’s life but their own. At the end of the chapter, he asks the reader to consider what examples they want to set, who they want to set it for, and what actions can you take to set that example.

For me, it starts with yourself. You hold yourself to that standard and can inspire those closest to you to take action themselves through your actions. You lead through example. 

I do recognize sometimes it is not that simple. There are a million reasons why you can or can not do something, especially when it is doing something out of your comfort zone. 

I want to set the example of giving by finding time to give back and help others more and inspiring others to do the same. Sometimes all it takes is you taking initiative and asking someone to join you when you volunteer or asking for donations to an important cause. Always remember, there is no right or wrong way to give back when we are helping those around us.

I believe we have to be the community in which we want to live. Meaning, if we want to live in a loving, caring, and nurturing community — we have to provide that for ourselves and others. 

How would you answer that question? What examples would you set and who would you set them for?