I believe that random acts of kindness can change the world. As I begin my day each morning I remind myself to be kind. I try to show the kind of kindness that is remembered. The kind of kindness that surprises someone and completely changes their attitude for the rest of the day. Our world needs more of that kind of kindness.
I know that everyone is capable of expressing kindness, but not everyone chooses to express it. Being a high school senior, I can testify to the lack of kindness on my campus. At any given moment of the day, there are thousands of opportunities to express kindness. Unfortunately, many times people choose not to take them. The reason for the lack of kindness in our world is because of the fact that it is easier to be rude. In order to show kindness, it takes that extra step. It takes an extra second to let that person into your lane on the freeway. It takes an extra minute to hold the door open for the person behind you. It takes time to be kind, but I believe that it is all worth it.
When I decide to show kindness, it not only affects the person that I am giving it to, but it affects me as well. When I give the dollar to the boy at the vending machine who needs one, or allow a car to merge into my lane, it makes me feel good. It makes me feel so good, that I continue to give. I feel somewhat selfish, giving all the time. It’s really quite paradoxical, but it’s true. When I give and see the other person smile from happiness, I am also filled with happiness and it is in that moment that I see the world changing from kindness. The world is changing not just because one person is being kind. No, the world is changing because kindness spreads. Once I decide to be kind and I give it to someone else, then now they are filled with the desire to be kind as well. It’s this cycle that can truly change our world for the better.
I know that kindness can change the world because it is contagious and once you catch it, all you want to do is pass it on.