Random Acts of Kindness

“How do we change the world? One random act of kindness at a time.” ~ Morgan Freeman

What is the most memorable random act of kindness you’ve ever seen or experienced?

For me, it was Valentine’s Day, 2017. I was driving to school and I noticed a man on the side of this inner city street, holding a cardboard sign. This wasn’t an uncommon sight, but as I drove past him and read his sign, I smiled. It read: “Slow down. Cops ahead. Random Acts of Kindness Day.” Something about this guy warning all traffic that there was a speed trap ahead just shifted my view of random acts of kindness. And it makes me laugh every time I think about it! 

For this man, an act of kindness was saving strangers from a speeding ticket. What do acts of kindness look like to you? In what ways does care and compassion show up every day in the classroom? How is thoughtfulness and selflessness shared in your home?

I think sometimes we overcomplicate acts of kindness. It’s the seemingly simple things like making eye contact, smiling at a stranger, and listening with intention that may make people feel the most valued. But there’s no harm in having fun with kindness too! What are some creative ways you enjoy sharing love and care? I’ve heard of people leaving motivational cards or messages at places around the community. I just read a story about a local bus driver who noticed a student was feeling sad and asked him about it. The student didn’t have pajamas to wear for PJ day that was coming up. So the bus driver went to the store to buy this kiddo some comfy, fashionable PJ’s and made sure he had them in time for this special day. 

How might you show random acts of kindness today? And how will your students be inspired from your example?