One simple act of kindness. That’s all it took to change my life. Over and over again, someone making a random act of kindness has made me the person I am today.

It was a stranger giving up their parking spot for me. The person in front of me in the drive-thru paying for my ticket. It was a kid befriending me when I didn’t have or know anyone else. And so many more.

One act of kindness goes a long way! And if you don’t believe me, think about the last time a stranger complimented you for no reason. Or the time that someone called to report they had found your missing wallet. (Again, these are all things that have happened to me.)

And the reason I’m talking about all this is because today is National Random Acts of Kindness Day. A day for me to give back and do my part like all those amazing people who have helped me get to where I am and probably don’t even know it.

So here are three things I’ve done today to contribute my share of good and kindness to others.

Pay It Forward

I work with some pretty awesome people. I’m not sure how many people can say that about their coworkers, but I mean it. They allow me to be myself and even like me for it. They include me in any ‘insider’ information going on when I still consider myself the new girl.

I have even had multiple offers to pick up a shift if I need! So today I decided I wanted to give back to them in some way for all they’ve done for me. When I got off my shift, I bought everyone a drink.

This is definitely not something out of the normal at all with my coworkers, but today it was my turn to give back. My turn to show my appreciation and spread kindness. The best part, all 3 of those girls were genuinely grateful for it which made it all that much more worth it!

Out With The Old

I’m sure you know the saying ‘Out with the old, in with the new’. Well, this is a little different. This is just getting rid of things you may not need anymore. And you’d be surprised what others do need that you don’t.

Growing up as a kid we used the Salvation Army resources a lot. From shopping used clothes and furniture, to getting Christmas presents to put under the tree when we didn’t have enough money. We even lived in a SA housing facility when we had nowhere to go. Some people might call it like a homeless shelter.

So today after work, I stopped at the local SA drop-off to donate old clothing items we no longer need. It’s an easy (and free!) way of spreading the kindness today that hits home for me. They don’t accept much at once because they have so much coming in, but in my opinion, that’s awesome! That means there a lot of people out there willing to help out!

What Goes Around Comes Around

My ‘Little’ is always doing things to help me out. Honestly it sometimes makes me feel guilty because I’m always so busy that I don’t feel like I can put in the effort he does. He helps cook, clean, pet duties, pretty much anything.

The craziest part is I don’t even ask. Sometimes I even tell him not to do it and he still does. Oh, and he pretty much works full time too. For only being 18, I’d say he’s killing it. So I had to think of him on today of all days!

Today I tried to return the favor. Well, as much as I could for one day! I asked him if there was anything he needed before work this morning. He of course said no but I still helped him with his lunch anyway. After work today, I tried to ‘clean’ his room (the best I could without touching personal belongings anyway!) I wanted to show him that I’m not too busy, especially when it comes to him.

Kindness Is Key

I think the point of a day like today is to show people that even just one act of kindness can change someone’s life. I know for a fact it has for me! A day like today is a reminder that there are still good people and good things happening, even if it’s sometimes hard to see.

What is something you are inspired to do today to spread the kindness? Share in the comments below! Like I said, you never know what one act of kindness can do to someone’s life. And you never know what kind of impact you will make!

Thank you so very much for being a part of ETM’s community of Mommas! I encourage you to join discussions, interact with Mommas alike, and be unapologetically yourself! Until next time, I hope I’m able to help make your life as simple as could be. (:

With all my love, Brandolyn – Earth to Momma