Most people have heard of random acts of kindness. They are - as simply as the term suggests - selfless acts performed by one person, solely to cheer up another person. The photo above is a random act of kindness I was on the receiving end of. Those familiar with Bishopville, Maryland and those who know good barbeque, also know of Eming's - a tiny shack on the state line that you would otherwise not expect to have such delicious cuisine. The outside pavilion where finger-lickin' visitors can sit to eat is nothing fancy.
And yet, the last time I was there, someone no longer in sight had made it fancy by leaving a water bottle on the table full of flowers for the next hungry patron to enjoy. A random act of kindness. With so much negativity seen in the media these days, it's easy to forget there is still good in the world. Random acts of kindness are a good way to give and receive the good.
The website dedicated to random acts of kindness points out that it's even scientifically good for you! "They improve your life satisfaction by increasing your sense of belonging and self- worth, and they improve your health by decreasing your anxiety, depression and blood pressure.
And here’s the best part: these benefits apply to the giver of kindness, the recipient of kindness, and anyone who witnesses the act! Every act improves the lives of at least three people.
So, why kindness? Scientifically? Because it’s good for your health. Economically? Because it’s free. Practically? Because it’s easy. Socially? Because it improves the world. But the real reason, of course... is that kindness is the key to lasting happiness."
(Source: https://www.randomactsofkindness.org/)