Day 11: K is for Kindness

   A few weeks ago, I went to see the new Cinderella movie with Anne Marie Schlueter (ya'll should check out her blog here. She's kinda amazing). Though I had extremely high hopes for the movie, it exceeded my wildest expectations. It was perfect in every way. The script had amazing messages, the acting was incredible, and the scenery was stunning. But I have to admit that my favorite part of the movie was Cinderella herself. I was enthralled by her beauty. And even though Lily James is a gorgeous actress, it wasn't her looks that made Cinderella beautiful; it was her heart.

   Before Ella's mother died, she told Ella a secret that would get her through all the trials that life has to offer: "Have courage and be kind." Ella carried these words in her heart her whole life, and truly lived them out. Even when her father died and she was left with an abusive step-mother and horrible step-sisters, Ella was courageous and kind. Her goodness seemed to exude radiant beauty.

   I decided then and there that I wanted to be as beautiful as Cinderella. I wanted the virtue that made her so stunning. I wanted to be courageous and kind. I decided to do one random act of kindness every day, to spread joy and love wherever I could. And I challenge you to do the same. I challenge you to do one act of kindness every day, to choose courage and kindness.

Random acts of kindness:

1. Send someone a hand written note of thanks.
2. Make a card at home and send it to a friend for no reason.
3. Buy a lottery ticket for a stranger.
4. Put some coins in someone else’s parking meter.
5. Buy a coffee for the man on the street selling magazines.
6. Cut your neighbour’s hedge.
7. Walk your friend’s dog.
8. Give a compliment about your waiter / waitress to his / her manager.
9. Send someone a small gift anonymously.
10. Stop and help someone replace their flat tire.
11. Let someone cut in front of you in line.
12. Pay for the drinks on the next table at a café.
13. Treat a friend to the movies for no reason.
14. Give a huge tip to someone when they least expect it.
15. Hold the train door open for someone rushing to get in.
16. Give up your seat for someone, not just an elderly person.
17. Write notes of appreciation at least once a week.
18. Talk to a homeless person and have a “normal” conversation.
19. Pick up some trash in the road which would otherwise be lying around.
20. Compliment a work colleague for their excellence.
21. Recommend a competitor to a potential client.
22. Give another driver your parking spot.
23. Offer coffee to a delivery person.
24. Help an elderly neighbor carry the trash cans out.
25. Tell all your family members how much your appreciate them.
26. Leave a copy of an interesting book on a train / bus.
27. Buy an inspirational book for a friend.
28. Send a thank you note to a person who has helped you in the past.
29. Smile a lot.