Yesterday was national Act of Kindness Day. It seems only fitting this day also lands on the same day as Jacob Wetterling’s birthday. In honor of both these events the Newsleaders staff invites you to celebrate those acts of kindness not just for one day, but in the coming weeks as well.
It will be 33 years in October since Jacob was abducted and that loss is still felt by many. Those of us who live and have grown up in the area remember it like it was yesterday. Many things changed after that in our communities. Abduction awareness became more prominent, parents became afraid to let their children wait alone by bus stops, little by little certain things we never used to even bat an eye at became a source of anxiety. And the heartbreak that we all feel for the Wetterling family still stands today.
That’s why we think it’s so important to start taking notice of the small stuff and honor the memory of Jacob by doing some acts of kindness in your neighborhoods. There are many things we can do to show appreciation for others or help out a stranger in need. Below are some ideas that might help you get started.
Take notice of those passing you by. Do you like their hair, shirt or shoes? Tell them. People underestimate the power of a random compliment. Think about the last time someone did this for you and how it made you feel. There is power behind those simple little gestures, and it could mean more than you know to someone.
Have you ever been in a public restroom or a restaurant and noticed a little note with an encouraging message on it? Those have most likely come from past national Act of Kindness days. Leaving an inspiring note for some to find can lift the spirits of someone who might be having a tough time, or just really needs a sign they’re doing OK. You could be that sign for them.
How about babysitting for free for that single mom or the parents who haven’t had a night out since their child was born? Or baking cookies for your local law enforcement office or fire station? You could walk a neighbor’s dog or shovel their driveway. There are so many little things we can do to show kindness that mean so much; it’s just about taking the time to notice them.
And remember, kindness is contagious, so feel free to spread it all over your neighborhood. That’s the kind of pandemic we need more of.
