Kindness Drops: Tiny Gestures That Change Everything

It’s amazing to think about how small acts of kindness can have such a large impact on daily lives. Small actions done in great love leave a ripple effect that can be felt for a long time. These are everyday “seeds” we can plant to brighten days. I want to share a few examples with you of how the members of Sharing is Caring bring a bit of sunshine to our community and the long-term results that follow.

Some years back, we decided to put out a call to all Sharing is Caring members to use their talents, art, and other generous ideas to create positive items with words of encouragement and affirmation to leave at random places all around their community. They were happy to do that and sprang into action. Some painted rocks, some designed little message cards, others created crafts with powerful messages of hope, and proceeded to leave them at the various places they traveled to throughout their days. They also included our contact information so they would know who we are, where this came from, and learn a little more about why we’re here and do what we do. We were surprised, and our hearts were blessed to learn of the people who found one of those items and messages and how it affected their day. For one woman that I will share about today, it greatly affected her life.

This dear woman found one of the items, and then found us on Facebook and introduced herself. She explained to us how that specific message was exactly what she needed on that particular day due to the hardships and struggles she was currently facing in her family. She had two children and was navigating health issues, marital problems, and financial hardship. What she found was a welcoming, safe space of support and friendship. Over the years, we came to know this woman and her kids quite well and cherished the opportunity to do so. We offered help when needed with groceries and other essentials. Fast forward to just last year, when she faced the hardest battle yet, when she was diagnosed with cancer. During her down times of treatments, various members took meals and offered a strong shoulder and a listening ear, and lots of hugs. We kept her surrounded with love and support until her passing. She said many times that she had no idea how a little act of random kindness would impact her life and lead her to a community of support that she would need.

Another thing we enjoy doing is visiting our community “U-Pick” wildflower gardens during spring and summer, and creating bouquets to give to neighbors and random folks to brighten their day. One sweet elderly lady was a recipient of one of these handmade bouquets that some of our young teen girls randomly gave her. We found out after the fact that she had just lost her husband, and the love she felt at that moment was welcomed and needed.

Cindy, one of our members, shared with me about the spring project that she is currently working on. “I just started painting rocks with inspirational quotes and fun animals and flowers that I’m decorating”. She’s going to encourage others by leaving them all over the place through her daily travels. “Encouragement in any form is needed in our world”, she said.

What can you do to brighten someone’s day today?

Sharing Is Caring Aid is a non-profit which provides care and support to the vulnerable through collective giving. Please visit our website and sign up for our newsletters, visit us on Facebook, and - if you are able - please donate to our mission.