A Random Act of Kindness
“No act of kindness – however small – is ever wasted.”
(Aesop)
We just returned from vacation in Maui during which we also celebrated our anniversary. It was wonderful, without too much work to do, but now it’s getting life back to the normal routines both personal and business.
We had dinner at Gannon’s Restaurant at the Wailea Golf Club in Wailea, a recommendation of a professional colleague of ours. It was everything we hoped for and expected, with terrific ocean views and excellent food.
We were seated outdoors, to enjoy the views of the golf course and ocean, and of course the balmy weather, and were seated near another couple. We struck up a short conversation and learned they, too, were celebrating their anniversary, although theirs was earlier in the week.
After a couple minutes, with casual pleasantries completed, we each returned to our respective dinners and enjoying the evening.
When our server brought the check he informed us that the gentleman at the adjacent table had bought us each a glass of wine in celebration of our anniversary, but did not want us to know until they had left the restaurant. We were so pleasantly surprised at this bit of kindness out of the blue. It brought a glow to an already wonderful day and evening!
Interestingly, it made me start thinking about kindness, and the many opportunities we have to show it every day – to those we know, to strangers, to people who have assisted us in one way or another, and so on.
“A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees.”
(Amelia Earhart)
It could be as simple as a friendly smile, a few simple words of thanks and appreciation, holding open a door, or letting someone go before you in the grocery line. And of course it could be much more.
You simply have to watch and be aware of the opportunities, and then be kind in some way, without any expectation or hope for something in return except the joy of having done something kind for someone else.
And perhaps step out of your comfort zone and do something you might not ordinarily do.
What kindness have you shared or experienced recently?
“Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.”
(Maya Angelou)
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