I have an ongoing debate with myself--I often wonder whether humans tend more toward the good or toward the evil. I have seen people put themselves in mortal danger to help others, or go hungry so that others might eat, or spend hours volunteering for the benefit of those in need. I have also seen people use their power to use and abuse those around them--we have all seen people do wondrous good deeds and horrific bad ones.
But since we are all in need of the positive right now, let's focus on that. What is the kindest act you have ever seen? Why do you remember it so well?
Last Christmas my best friend invited us to share an amazing experience with her. She got enough donations to make care packets for homeless people around our area. So on Christmas day we went out and distributed the care packages and it was amazing the people that we encountered. i mean we have an image of these people who are homeless and we are so easy to judge them. but on this day i really got to know these people and having the opportunity to pray with them was even a better experience. Many of the people that we came across would tell us a bit of their background and it was interesting to learn about them. Some would say that they are homeless because of mistakes they have made and they are trying to get on their feet. There was this one man that told us that these little gestures that people do for them gives them hope and that their are people that do care about them. All it takes is someone to do something good for someone else. This gives people hope that there are good people out there. This moment was memorable to me because it made me see there points of view and learn that it takes very little to make a person happy and give them that little hope that they need to be pushed o be better. We don't know what they have been through so why not just give them hope, so Christmas this year was wonderful and can't wait to do it again soon.
ReplyDeleteClaudia I know the feeling of being able to help those who are in need, it is the best feeling in the world seeing them smile and thanking you for helping them out. I love doing volunteer work helping out around my community and its awesome that you and your friend were able to help those who are in need that's a good that is a good act and in fact a good deed.
DeleteThank you Joaquin It was a great experience and its a great feeling to see that a simple little gift can maker someone happy.
DeleteI love that your friend didn't only see the needs of others but took action to provide for those needs. Caring for the homeless is always one of the most moving acts I can think of. It always makes my heart smile when I see someone actually going around and talking with them. They are people too and need to be loved! Love it.
DeleteTo be honest the kindest act I've witness myself would have to be last year, I remember the specific date and time it was December 18,2016 it was about 5:30pm at LAX I specifically remember that because that was the date I was leaving for New York, a little boy was wondering off my terminal to me it seemed as if the little boy was lost I didn't really pay much attention to it but when I heard the cries and the panic in his voice I knew the little boy was lost. I remember seeing the little boy from a far distance he appeared to be about 6/7 years old I wanted to go and talk to him but I just couldn't, that little boy dropped on the floor gasping for air I was ashamed that no one would actually stop and see if the little boy needed help I felt defenseless not being able to help the little boy because I was passing the metal detectors the boy scream help me please I cant breathe and finally some guy stopped and gave him CPR from what I saw from a distance it seemed as if the boy was turning blue finally the mom comes out of the bathroom and quickly injects the child with a needled I was really scared for the little boy even though this individual didn't really do much to help this defenseless child it was his act that made him a hero, so it made me think seeing all those people walking over the child why didn't they just stop and help this child? are we really that busy in life that we will just let a child die in front of our eyes. I'm not going to lie I kind of teared up a bit seeing the child on the floor and no one helping him,I could've gotten out of line and try to help but I didn't but that guy that stopped and actually tried to help this child I give him props because whatever was going on in his world he decided to act now and help. Yes his mom ended up showing but imagine if the child was there on floor by himself, I'm just glad someone was there to help him out.
ReplyDeleteI can't tell you how many times I have seen an occasion where an individual was in distress and people just going about their business like nothing is happening. Thank God, the little tike was given help!!
DeleteScott it's kind of disgusting seeing those who are In need and others just walk pass them I'm gets me upset because I know we all at least have a second to try and help that individual out.
DeleteMakes witnessing an act such as the one you watched all the more special.
DeleteThis is a hard one because I can think of so many. I would say if it was an act I have actually seen in person and not on the internet, it would be my boyfriend's parents' decision to take in another little boy from the system. They even consulted in each one of us (the family), to see if it was okay with us and we all agreed that the little boy needed a solid family and that we were willing to work with him and help him feel loved. I think this was so influential to me because I personally know so many people who were raised in the system, my boyfriend being one of them. To see them go into a family like the boy is in now, and be loved and cherished is always such a miracle to me. Not that they always go into good homes, which is sad, but I love that this little boy did. I have such a heart for foster children because they have experienced evils of this world firsthand. If I can be an influence in their lives, that would absolutely fill my heart. They just recently told this little boy (who is nine) that they were going to become his legal guardians and his reaction was priceless. Here was a boy who went from moving from home to home, to finally finding a place where he can feel safe. I think that is why this stood out to me. It is making a huge difference in this child's life, and I wish it were like that for every child. I also love this because they are eventually going to adopt him, and they have adopted three other children who were in the system (two being my boyfriend and his biological little brother). I, myself, was also adopted. Not from the system, but from overseas because my parents could not afford to care for me. I love stories of love for children and adoption.
ReplyDeleteMy parents could not afford to take care of* me. Not for me.
Deletewow, people, these are intense...and great!
ReplyDeleteThis is extremely hard because I witness kindness all the time, and I don't think I can pick out and decide on just one single kind act. Instead of pointing out just one instance of kindness, I'd like to talk about a person who has made the biggest impact on me with their kindness. That person would be my fiancé. We met in the sixth grade and were high school sweethearts. Even before we started dating, he was always kind to me and everyone around him. He never made the typical mean high school jokes about others, never talked bad about others, and most importantly, he truly was a friend to everyone. He constantly is looking at other's burdens and finding ways to relive them even if it means caring an extra load. Sometimes I find the kindest acts he demonstrates to be so small that not everyone notices. A few examples would include constantly opening doors for other, helping strangers pick up items they've dropped, and buying extra food when we stop at a drive-thru to give to the homeless. Seeing the kindness he shows others and myself everyday, make me what to be a better person and show kindness as well. This past thanksgiving, our church was having a food drive to provide thanksgiving meals to different families in the community. Keep in mind we are still pretty poor collage students. He typically is extremely tight with his money would it comes to spending on himself, but for others it is never a question. We went to the store and gathered items like a turkey, pie, stuffing, and all the other typical thanksgiving foods. Because of his kindness, a family of five was able to have an entire thanksgiving meal that they otherwise wouldn't have been able to have. His kind acts are one of the many reasons I love him. He makes the same impression to everyone he meets as being a kind and generous human.
ReplyDeleteIt is always the smallest things that matter. It doesn't have to be money it can me a simple gesture as your fiance does. Good for him.
DeleteYour fiancé has a good heart, and that story is inspiring. My old church would "challenge" us to pay for person behind in the drive-thru as a random act-of-kindness, next time I do a drive-thru, I'm going to do that.
DeleteI think one of the kindest acts I have ever witnessed has been the Out of the Darkness event. The Out of the Darkness is an event put together by The Psychology Club on campus every fall to educate individuals about suicide. The reason it is put together during the fall is because lonely holidays can make an impact to individuals suffering from a mental disorder. The event focuses on bringing guest speakers to testify and speak about their life struggles to be the voice for those in need to voice theirs. All the guest speakers have attempted suicide and or have lost someone from suicide. I take this event as one of the most kindness acts I have seen because I think it takes courage to stand in front of many individuals to speak about life issues. An individual must truly want to break free and help those in need to be able to have such strength to stand in front of so many people to make a difference. I have attended the event for the past two fall semesters and I must confess it breaks me into tears every time. I have not fully figured out the reason to my river of tears. I always wonder if its because of the joy I get when I realize someone out there cares for humanity as much as I do or of sadness that mental illness still has a stigma. Overall, I think events that want to educate individuals about such paradoxes in order to help those in need are the kindest acts with lots of compassion I have ever witnessed.
ReplyDeleteThis an awesome event that you guys have. I am sure that it helps many students and the awareness of suicide. This is very kind of you guys to do.
DeleteI believe this is a very unique kind of act done by these individuals who suffer from a mental disorder because like you mentioned it shows their courage and bravery which can be very difficult, yet that is what makes them truly incredible people.
DeleteWow, this is true! I give these people my respect. It does take a lot of courage to put their lives on display with the hope of maybe saving a person that is going through something similar. They are very honorable.
Delete- I adore this post, for it sheds light to mental health. Thank you for sharing and for attending these important events. #fuckstigma
DeleteWhen I was little, my family did not make a lot of money but we lived a small house in a poor neighborhood. My dad would work, but my mom didn't because she didn't speak English and had a bad knee. Instead she would sell tamales and burritos around the neighborhood or near stores. This being said, she didn't have much but what I remember was that she would give some away to homeless people. I would walk around with her as she sold tamales and she always made conversations with people who didn't have homes even if she hardly knew English, she would always try. My mom has the biggest heart and to this day, she still stops to talk to people by the store and people sleeping in the streets. Her english has gotten a lot better, but it isn't fluent. It just makes me realize how kind and loving she is because several other people wouldn't go out of their way to say hello or just give a smile. She really inspires me and has built that kindness in me. Sometimes when I go to a fast-food restaurant after class or just because Im hungry, I buy more food just in case I see someone who has been sitting outside all day. I feel like doing these random acts of kindness should be something that comes from our hearts and not for publicity. I literally carry a large bag of dog food and cat food in my car (which does not smell that nice all the time) just so I could give stray animals a nice normal meal for a change instead of them struggling for food. It breaks my heart seeing people and animals roaming the streets struggling to survive. I'm really grateful to have seen all the acts of kindness my mother would do even when we were struggling ourselves. Sometimes we could be so selfish and I'm glad I've witnessed warmth, care, and generosity by somebody so close to me.
ReplyDeleteThats amazing. My mother is also my biggest inspiration. I am 20 years old and she still surprises me every single day of what she is capable of.
DeleteHi Azucenna,
DeleteYour mother is inspirational. I am glad people like her still exists. We need more individuals like her in this world. You're so lucky and blessed to have a mother like her.
That's awesome, I wouldn't know what I would do without my mom either. She's such a hard worker and I hope to be more like these kind hearted Mothers we have today.
DeleteAzucenna, your mother is a beautiful person who has an extremely big heart. The fact that she did not have much money and the little money she had, she gave out, says a lot about her. You have inspired me! I want to do the same thing you do and buy extra food in case I see a homeless person. Thank you for sharing your story!
DeleteAzucenna,
DeleteYour mother has a beautiful heart!
This is a perfect example that you don't have to have money or go out of your way to help someone in need.
Hi Azucenna,
DeleteWow, your mother is a beautiful human being. It is such a good thing that you were inspired by her. I have never heard of someone buying extra food in case they want to give it away, but that is great thing to do!
It's nice to read about your mother, she reminds me of my parents. Before my parents would give money to those asking for it, but with them realizing that there might be those who don't need it or use it for something other than food my parents ask them if they would like something from a nearby restaurant. It's also nice to know that you carried on their principles of kindness. We definitely need more people like you in this world :)
Delete- Your mom truly is a hero and inspiration to the world. Thank you for sharing Azucenna.
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ReplyDeleteThe kindest act I have seen recently is when an individual decided to use a hidden camera in a social experiment to record to the goings on of a particular city sidewalk. A gentleman (the experimenter) pulls up curbside next to a parking meter driving a newer automobile, and he gets out and briskly walks away. While walking away a homeless man that is panhandling on the sidewalk tries to communicate to the gentleman calling "Hey!! You forgot to pay the meter, man!!". The man pays no mind and keeps on walking, or so it seems. The homeless man then digs into his change cup and plugs the meter not once but numerous times during a span of two hours so the automobile would not be ticketed. The driver of the parked automobile returns, goes over to the homeless man, and they discuss the act of kindness displayed by the homeless man, and then points out the hidden camera.
ReplyDeleteAt this point, I am beginning to get choked up as I see where this is going. The man conducting the social experiment asks the man, who was admittedly brought to tears, why he kept plugging the meter? The homeless man answered that he's been through a lot and doesn't have much going for him, and this was the least he could do to help someone avoid getting ticketed.
What got me choked up, and eventually caused the flood gates to open was that the homeless man was selfless in his act of kindness. Telling the auto owner that he didn't want him to get a ticket, and that it was only a little bit of change. The experimenter then pulls out his wallet and peels off what appears to be a nice sum of money and gives it to the good Samaritan. Needless to say the homeless man was shocked and overcome, mentioning he had never been given such a large amount of money.
It wasn't the sole act of the homeless man or the sole act of the experimenter, but the entire act on both sides that made such an impact on me.
There are times my faith in humanity is not in abundance because of all the crazy shit I see going on in our world, but it's acts like this that give me hope that all is not lost, yet.
I have seen this social experiment as well, and it was amazing to see someone who has little to nothing left being completely selfless to help out a complete stranger. Sometimes humanity can still surprise you.
DeleteI've been given help quite a few times over the years, and when I see someone that is genuinely in need, there is no way I cannot help if I am able to.
DeleteOK, so concentrating on the positive aspects of humanity also brings us to tears. The fact that we cry because of acts of kindness shows us that at the end of the day, most of us still recognize that we are all humans, and that gives me hope.
Delete"...hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies."
Delete~Andy DuFresne
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ReplyDeleteHonestly, one of the most kindest acts that I have seen is actually the most recent one. This just happened last week on February 14th, Valentines Day. As I was getting off work around 4:30 I headed to the flower shop to pick up some flowers for both my mother and my girlfriend. As I was picking which flower arrangements seemed like the best ones, I noticed about three other men also trying to rush to get flowers to their loved ones. Once we had the arrangements, we all stood in line to pay. There were two other gentleman in front of me getting ready to pay. The first one was an older gentleman looks like he had just gotten out of work and looked exhausted. Clothes really dirty, full of mud and sweat. The second man who was right in front of me was a younger kid maybe about 22-23 and was dressed nicely. Maybe on his way to a Valentines date. As the older gentleman went to pay his card would not go through. the cashier tried the card maybe about 4 times and it would not get accepted. Then the gentleman would say that he did not have any cash on him and that he did not know what to do. As he was getting ready to just leave the flowers there, the young kid in front of me says, "Who are you buying them for?" He responds and tells him they are for his wife. The young man then pays for his flowers and hands them over to the gentleman and says, "Here. I hope she loves them." The look on the older mans face was something out of pure happiness. He tells him thank you over and over again and that there was no way he could accept them. But the young kid just reassures that it is nothing to worry about and go spend time with your loved one. Honestly it was something that I could not believe. It was something so special and just showed that everyone deserves a helping hand now and then. If a man is down, you give him your hand. My parents always taught me that.
ReplyDeleteI love feel good stories like this one!!
DeleteIt reminds me of the time I was at Vons during the Christmas Holiday and a lady was buying items to bake Christmas goodies, but was short and started pulling items off the conveyer belt.
Being it was Christmas and the fact she reminded me of when my Yia Yia(Greek Grandmother)was getting ready to bake all kinds of Christmas confections, there was no way I could not help her.
Beautiful! Enough said.
DeleteWow! Such a beautiful story, that was such a kind act done by the young man! We need more people like him. The way you described everything made me picture the poor man struggling to get those flowers! I am so glad the young man was so helpful and like you said when a man is down you give them your hand! Definitely a touching story!
DeleteThat's really nice of him to spot to older gent. Class act.
DeleteChristian,
DeleteYou wrote a very nice story. I really enjoyed it, because it showed how a kid helped a young man (who had difficulty swiping his card). This is really a kind deed. In my opinion, kind deeds can be anything like the following: rescuing people, helping people who have difficulty, caring for the environment, being a forgiving person, and being supportive towards people. I have seen and heard about kind deeds in my life (on television, at home, and at school). I hope to become like these people in my own unique way. Kind people are caring, helpful, giving, responsible, and don't try to gain anything in return. Kind people do not just say sweet words in their mouth. They do wonderful and commendable actions. You wrote a good discussion post, because you explained the recent story very well. It was very cool that this story happened on Valentine's Day.
I love this story and I particurlary love that it took place on Valentine's Day.I remember someone paying for me when I was short on cash and I was speechless. I could only imagine that grateful heart that man had!
DeleteOne of the most kindest acts I have ever seen would be involving an Olympic running event. This race was between about 10 runners while one of the runners falls and can't get back up. One of her competitors who had never met her before did not think to hesitate whether or not to help her up. She quickly helped the runner who fell and threw her arm around her own neck so they, as a team would make it across the finish line together. Being such an important event for each of their lives, I was totally shocked and questioned myself if I would have done the same thing. This shows that their are selfless in this world that would run the extra mile for you.
ReplyDeleteYes, I remember that, too!! Oh, man, that was very moving to watch!!
DeleteThat was very kind from the competitor, sometimes we need to stop and look around, there are people close to us, in need of our support, but we are to concentrated on ourselves that we do not release it. Please do not take me wrong, I do understand this kind of act but; If I’m competing, I’m going to try my best to win, someone is going to get hurt by losing anyways, should I care, should that stop me for trying harder? I don’t like this week’s topic.
DeleteWow Jason, that is great. I love the Olympics and stories like this make me love them even more.
DeleteCrazy how people can give up possibly winning to help others. In this event it is great that they were able to finish together.
DeleteJason,
DeleteThis post is a nice discussion post, because you clearly explained your story of kindness. It was also so kind of the competitor to help the fallen runner. This is both a heroic and helpful act. The idea of an unknown person helping another is like saving someone, who is tripping in a dangerous area (like a flight of stairs). I also noticed that the news media shares some stories of heroes and kind people. I have read three other discussion posts, and found out that offering a helping hand, and preventing someone from getting a ticket are random acts of kindness. Helping ill and poor people is also an act of kindness as well. The competitor reminds me of the movie Cars, where the racecar Lightning McQueen sacrifices his winning position, to help save another car in an accident. Some kind people surrender certain things they truly love, to help some other people.
Roshaan S.
I remember hearing about that story. The perception of competition to others always seem to bring people against one another, but the Olympics shows that brings everyone together. Sportsmanship is probably one of the most valued trait for competition for a reason.
DeleteI remember watching this video on Youtube sometime ago and it brought tears to my eyes. Whenever I see videos of athletes doing that for one another, I have the same reaction. It really is a beautiful act of kindness, and I'm glad that you mentioned that story.
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ReplyDeleteI had just gotten out of the army and was spending some time with my older brother. He had not decided what he wanted to do with his life, but had an interest in the medical field, and in law enforcement, so he carried around a police scanner listening to what was happening on the island. After visiting some of our favorite fishing spots and hanging out looking at the ferries shuttle people from one island to the next, we were going to do some hunting. On the scanner, we heard a call of a person in distress not far from where we were. Immediately, my brother insisted that we go, and he put his Nissan Sentra’s pedal to the metal. When we arrived on the scene, there was a middle-aged man on the dock just in front of his boat unconscious. Without hesitation, my brother checked for a pulse, and breathing. Finding neither, he started CPR and continued until the ambulance arrived and the paramedics took over. After dropping me off at home, my brother went to the hospital to check on the gentleman. Unfortunately he did not make it, but this incident propelled my brother into becoming an EMT and later on, an auxiliary police officer where continued helping others at his own peril. I remember this incident because of the look on my brother’s face when he realized that he could make a real difference in this person’s life, although he might not have been consciously thinking about it. The lack of hesitation, and determination on my brother’s behalf was truly heroic to me.
ReplyDeleteWow that is a great story. Your brother is a real hero, it takes a lot of bravery and selflessness to drop everything and help a stranger. I can tell your brother is really passionate about helping people since he has continued to do it since then as a job.
DeleteIts amazing to see that people have the natural habit to help another person in need. Your brother didn't even think twice about helping that man.
DeleteThis is such an inspirational story. I am so happy to hear your brother was so moved by that event in such a positive way that it made him continued to help many others in need.
DeleteThis is a great story. Its good to know there are people still out there whom want to help others. Going into the field he went into he will do plenty of it. Its great to have people like him around as no matter what the situation is I'm sure he would help.
DeleteWow Albion, your brother is awesome. It's nice to know of people in this world who are still willing to risk their life for others without anything in return. His job suits him perfectly.
DeleteIt's hard to really say what's the kindest thing I've done to someone, since I very often keep to myself most of the times. There was a time where my family ran an elderly care home, and I would often assist with taking care of the elderly (surprise surprise!) Often, it was tedious work, and it was quite gross too, but the people there were rather particular. They had their own share of problems, specifically dementia and Alzheimer's disease, but it was often that we conversed with one another and got to know each other. Talking to the families of the elderly was always interesting. Most other carehomes, according to my mom, don't really treat most of the elderly with respect. The nurses feed them, then let them mind their own business in their own room. My mom started up the carehome with my grandmother in mind (may she rest in peace.) Overall, I think helping my mother with managing the carehome and helping the elderly until their final moments is the best I've got for nicest thing.
ReplyDeleteWow I think that is simply amazing and super caring! Not all people care about their elder relatives, so it is nice that you help out in the care home.
DeleteYour mother is amazing for taking her time to care for those people and you as well. I love to see old people and it breaks my heart when people don't want to care for their elder family members.
DeleteThat is a very kind act in which you and your mom should be very proud of.
DeleteIt takes real courage to take care of people in the way you did. Many people wouldn't be found doing so. There are many things that occur that individuals don't think of. Its great to have someone like you in society.
DeleteI've worked in a care home before and I've seen this firsthand. It made me so sad and angry to see some employees rude to the elderly or their families not even visit them. You and your mom are great women.
DeleteI'm sure this will bore the non-parents... I've seen many acts of kindness, but the one that has made a huge impact in my life was when I was 19 years old. My husband and I were young first-time parents. We swore we would never allow our child to run wild, be disrespectful, or be raised by someone else so we can maintain a childhood. Our son was born and I could only describe him as a perfect baby. He ate well, slept through the night at 1 month old, and cried very little. The first year was a breeze. To any first-time parent(s), I know you can appreciate this. Well, terrible twos came around and I thought I was a complete failure at the whole parenting thing. My husband and I would do our weekly grocery shopping every Friday afternoon to beat the weekend rush. One Friday, my husband was called back out to work which meant I was left to shop alone. On all trips prior, our son would sit quietly in the shopping cart with his bag of snacks. I should've known from his behavior earlier that day that things would not go as planned. We made it halfway through the grocery store when he looked up and asked if he could help. I made the mistake of thinking I can tackle handling a child and shopping all by myself. He was a little testy, but nothing that couldn't be remedied by a song or joke. We make it to the checkout when all hell breaks loose. He asked for a candy and I offered him an apple. He throws himself on the floor, begins screaming, I am embarrassed, and want to slip away into a deep, dark hole in the ground. I know young parents are judged a little more harshly, or so I felt, because it's easy to dismiss their child's bad behavior as a product of young parents. The cashier, whom we went to every time, walked around, picked him up, and asked if he would like to watch her work. He stopped crying and agreed. I'm near tears myself and I know she knows. She walks back around after all of our groceries are bagged and hands me my son. She leans in, gives me a hug and says, "I see you every week. You and your husband are doing a great job at this. One meltdown doesn't make you a bad parent. I was 18 when I had my first baby, there were many fits. It won't be easy, but learn to laugh and it'll be much more enjoyable." And was this woman right! My son is now 20. There are far more times we laughed than cried, and I could not be more proud of what a fine young man he has turned out to be.
ReplyDeleteThis is such a sweet story! I'm sure the kind words of the cashier will always be something you will remember.
DeleteEmily, I will always be thankful for her. Her words resonated so deeply with me it definitely made a lasting impression. It was just what I needed at just the right time. What I didn't include was I knew that when the time presented itself, I would be responsible to tell the next person experiencing a child during meltdown is that it will be okay. :)
DeleteYes definitely at the right time! That would be really nice of your part to tell the next person the same! If you get to experience it.
DeleteThis is such a touching story! My eyes definitely got watery, sounds like you did a great job and your son should be happy to have you as his mom. It was a beautiful act from the lady to understand your situation rather than judge you.
DeleteHi Theresa,
DeleteWow, this is such an amazing story. I give props to that cashier because I would have not been able to do that, since I am a timid person. Those words of encouragement must have felt great!
One of the most kindest acts I have ever seen would be one of my friends who always goes out of his way to help the homeless. I remember clearly the first time I witnessed his act of kindness towards homeless people. It was a Sunday night, we all decided to go out and grab something to eat. As we walked into the restaurant he noticed a homeless man sitting across the street from the restaurant. As he ordered his and his girlfriend's food I noticed that he ordered extra food. At first I had no idea why he had done such thing but once we all got our food he walked out of the restaurant without hesitation. He went ahead and took the extra meal to the homeless man sitting across the street, he then took some time to speak to him and hold a conversation with the homeless man. Once he returned we all praised his action and proceeded to ask what took him so long. He then said to us that he was asking the guy about his day and how he felt or if he needed anything else. Then he said that the man asked him for some medicine because he wasn't feeling well so after the restaurant my friend went to the closest store to get an Advil for the man. When he handed the pill to him, the man was beyond thankful because of the food and the fact that my friend took the time to ask if he needed anything else. I've got to say that is probably one of the kindest acts I have ever seen especially because it was done by someone close to me. His actions impacted me in so many aspects, I feel like it made me value what I have and the opportunities I have as well. It also made me look at my friend in a different way, long before his act I knew he was a kind person but what he did that night was like the cherry on top of the cake to prove the type of human being he is. Ever since that night I always keep his actions in mind and I look forward to be able to do the same even if its not much.
ReplyDeleteWow! That is probably the nicest thing that anyone can do. You have an amazing friends and there is not a lot of people like him left. After reading your story, I really hope I can be like him.
DeleteThat is awesome!
DeleteYou friend has a huge heart. We are often so quick to judge people with out knowing their story, and is people like your friend that can make a big impact in someone's life.
Bianca,
Deletedefinitely agree! He is such a wonderful friend and human being he has definitely taught me a lot about life and I always wish the best for him because he deserves it!
Viridiana,
DeleteYou are right! Most people will not even bother to offer a piece of their food so by doing such thing he completely showed me a different side to humanity! He has definitely made me a different person!
Amazing, I think that it is something wonderful! Most people do not do this kind of act now a days.
DeleteDenise,
DeleteI can truly say I have been blessed with a wonderful friend!
I'm loving reading all of these stories of people who do things like that for homeless people. I see a lot of people give homeless people money, but buying them an actual meal is a great. I love that he took time to talk to him and ask him if he had any other needs... That is an amazing story!
DeleteThe kindest thing that I have ever seen a person do, is feed a homeless man. Some of you may have seen the video because it was in different social medias, but it was very empowering to me. We are seeing this all through the dads’ eyes because he is the one recording everything. It’s about a little girl who is sitting in a restaurant near a window and as she is sitting there, she notices a homeless man sitting on a bench outside the window. When she receives her food, she asks her father that if he will give her permission to give the food to the homeless man. Recording everything, he agrees and he walks outside with his daughter who is taking the man her plate of food. She hands him the plate of food and he immediately starts eating. As he started eating, the father of the girl told her that she probably gave him the most food he had ate in a week. After taking a few bites, he turned and told the little girl thank you and then she returned inside. I think I remember this so well because it is a very nice gesture that she did. Most people will see the homeless man and pity him, but will not do anything to feed him. The fact that the girl looked so cute and has a big heart, I think I will remember it for a long time. I watched this video about a week ago, so I don’t exactly remember all the details, but I think she was about 8 years old.
ReplyDeleteIt's sad that most people will walk by homeless people and not do anything about it. It's good that the father is encouraging her to do the kind acts.
DeleteI have not seen this video but I think it is great when children want to help. Most of them have the biggest hearts and it is so sweet. Now if only adults would do the same instead of just walking past them and doing nothing to help.
DeleteBrianna, if only most people were like her.
DeleteAlma, the parents should set the example to their kids. I really hope that the video really inspires other people, especially adults, to do the same thing.
DeleteYou're right, more people need to set this example for their kids. Hopefully more people see the video and it puts things into perspectives.
DeleteOne of the most kindest acts I have seen is people helping out the homeless. I got to be part of one of these beautiful experiences too. The youth from my church decided on last December to share love to the homeless. They made their own hand made cards with inspirational verses from the bible and handed them out to the homeless people. They made chicken burritos, coffee, and brought water bottles to them too. Not all homeless like to be helped, because we came across some that didn't want anything from us. They didn't want a water bottle or food. We didn't know exactly the reasons why they were homeless, but some did accept our help to them. Some of them did let us know that their are nice people in this world. Some would ask what church we came from, and they would ask for us to pray for them. It is much needed to pray one for another, because a lot of people need hope. It was a great feeling to see a smile on their faces. That smile was priceless! We might not have changed the world, but changing the day of that individual was more than enough. Some of those people do not have the same opportunities that I do or some of them need a lot of encouragement. This experience helped me value even more my family, education, and job. I am grateful for everything that I have in my life. I look forward to doing this again soon, because we all need help in some type of way. Some homeless people need hope, encouragement, and to know that they are not alone.
ReplyDeleteHi Emily, I thought your experience was very kindhearted and helpful. That is a really good thing to do especially for those groups of individuals. People without a home could use any helping hand and what your church did was very nice.
DeleteFirst of all, I am excited to spread positivity when we all need it most, considering all of the current events in our country. Today most of the news I see is all negative, and social media is the same way. One of the kindest things I have ever witnessed was at Martin Luther King park. I saw an older woman walking around passing out meals, blankets and other things to the homeless people. I had done this once before in high school, but what amazed me most and made it memorable was that she was out there on her own, giving out all kinds of necessities. The people she was helping out were all so grateful and it gave me such a sense of joy. It also made me want to go out and help more often because we all forget how lucky we are, but these sorts of reminders bring us back to reality. Even just donating to homeless shelters would make a difference, so I want to do more to help out and spread positivity.
ReplyDeleteThat's pretty amazing that she went by herself to do such a kind act. I myself have gave out meals to homeless people but I went out as a group. It made me think I should try doing it alone.
DeleteHey Jade. That's awesome what that old woman did and all by herself! And I do agree with you that most of the news and content on social media are quite negative.
DeleteYour exactly right, we are so lucky to have the everyday necessities that we do. Often times we forget to be thankful for a roof over our heads and three meals a day. Many people don't have either. Great story!
DeleteI have been very blessed to witness multiple kind acts in the past couple of years, specially from my fiancé. If I have to choose one, It would have to be this past weekend. On Saturday night, we were at Smart & Final getting groceries for the week. As we approached the cash register, there was an older lady unloading her groceries with two young children, a boy and a girl(between 8-12 years old).We were discussing what to make for dinner, as we minded our own business. Out of no where, all we heard was the little girl say "but grandma, why!" so we couldn't help but to look and see what was going on. The lady was telling the cashier she would have to remove certain items because she did not have enough money for all her groceries. Included in those items we noticed she was returning cereal, pop tarts, and two candy bars (assuming for the two children)along with other things. You can tell the lady felt embarrassed as she kept apologizing to us and others in line for the delay. My fiancé told her there was no need to apologize and to keep all her groceries, as he tells the cashier that he would take care of the lady's full tab. The lady told my fiancé he was so kind, but she couldn't accept that because no one had ever done anything like that for her ( as her eyes got watery).She continued to try to explain to us her financial situation, when he interrupted her and told her he didn't need and explanation because we've all been there at one point in our lives and was more than happy to help her. What was priceless to me was the look on the kids face, because they were getting their cereal and candy back. They got their groceries and left as we stood behind to wait for ours. He has always being a caring person who helps any one in need, which only makes me want to do the same for others as it leaves me with a big smile knowing such small efforts can make a big difference in someone's life.
ReplyDeleteThat is a very kind action from a random person, a good example for me and many others. Sometimes I see people asking for money on the corners, and sometimes when I can, I give them money, and I feel good about it. But other times, I ask to myself: Why should I give them my money? I need it too. I do have bills, I have children that need stuff, and I work hard for it. I wish I could be like your fiancé, just do the right think without questioning the needs of the others.
DeleteIt is so amazing how one person can really influence you in such a way that they are able bring out the generosity and humbleness that many of us carry inside but yet sometimes failed to do. He is a great man:)
DeleteWow! Half way through your story I couldn't help it, my eyes got watery. You have been blessed with such a kind partner. Don't ever take him for granted because there are not many people like him. What a beautiful act.
DeleteMarisol, I too have felt the exact feeling you just mentioned, but he has thought me to not worry about what they will do with the money. The way he looks at it is that as long as you mean well by your actions, the rest doesn't really matter.
DeleteWell said Ariana!
DeleteThank you Deisy!
DeleteHe is such an amazing man with a great heart.
Yea, that's what I do. When I can help, I just do it without judging, or expecting something on exchange. How am I supposed to know if that person is really in need for assistance, right?
DeleteThe kindest act that comes to mind for me is something that personally happened to me Christmas of 2015. At that time in my life we had a family of six instead of a family of four like I do now. My boyfriends’ two daughters had been living with us since 2013. Well during that time a couple weeks before Christmas my boyfriend had lost his job in the oilfields and was doing side work to make ends meet at home. We were living paycheck to paycheck and I was devastated that my four girls would not get presents for Christmas. Well my boyfriend was able to sell some tools and so I had about $200 for gifts, but for four girls that really does not go far. I went to my local Walmart and was able to get some really nice things for my girls. Out of the corner of my eye I saw this older man talking to customers when he comes up to me and asks me if he could buy my gifts for my kids. I started crying right then and there, I was so overwhelmed with this man’s kindness and it came at a moment when my family really needed it. I was able to give my girls a great Christmas thanks to that man and I hope one day I can do the same for another family in need.
ReplyDeleteHey Denise! Sorry to hear about your past struggles. That man sounds super kind! What presents did your girls end up receiving that year?
DeleteIt was such a beautiful thing that man did for your girls. Very generous of him:)
DeleteThat was really nice of him. The fact that he did not only ask you, but other customers as well, shows how big his heart is.
DeleteYes I was very touched my the nice gesture. This past Christmas was great for my kids. They received lots of toys as well as things they needed like clothes and shoes.
DeleteWhen I was in high school I had a teacher who would always love to do random acts of kindness. I got to be part of two of her random acts of kindness but I would have to say the kindest act was when she hosted an autism awareness day. Our class made blue ribbons and distributed the ribbons around the whole high school. As we distributed the blue ribbons students would ask how much was it for the ribbon and we would say they are free. They were all so amazed that we were giving them for free and that we were recognizing people with autism. We also gave the students some knowledge about what autism was since some weren't aware of it. I was so happy that most of the high school was supporting the people that had autism by wearing the blue ribbon. During lunch time, we gave out blue balloons and we all released the balloons at the same time. It was an amazing experience to be able to recognize people with autism and let them know that they are not alone. Having a large number of students participate in the event was awesome because it only took one teachers idea to bring a high school together for a cause.
ReplyDeleteIt is really amazing how one simple act can make a change! That must have been an amazing teacher!
DeleteHow awesome! You don't really hear many of these acts of kindness:) It's so nice that your teacher decided to bring about the awareness of autism in the way that she did.
DeleteI love stories involving teachers, you see a lot of teachers who do the bare minimmum but those who go beyond always warms my heart!
DeleteThat's awesome! This reminds me of the two teachers that went viral online for the hand shakes as students walked into the classroom. It wasn't about a particular disease, but when you look into it more and think of the outcomes for these students, there is high probability that it made it more enjoyable for these students to come to class every day because they looked forward to doing their own personalized hand shake with their teacher.
DeleteWhat an fantastic gesture. That sounds like a great way to unite a school and support a cause. That teacher seemed to have a great idea to bring awareness to Autism. Autism is something that is very near and dear to me. Thank you for sharing.
DeleteI have seen many kind acts on the internet and television, as well as throughout my life but one kind act that I witnessed and it is very special to me is the love and affection that the members of my church have for one another even if we are strangers. Last year, when my husband got a job offer in Paso Robles, he did not have a place to stay and there was not enough time to find an apartment before he started to work since the process usually takes a few weeks. Nonetheless, a member from the church we are from –"The Light of the World"—at Paso Robles, offer my husband a place to stay without really knowing him. He opened the doors of his home to a stranger. Even if he didn't know my husband, they shared the same faith, thus a brother in faith. This to me was an act of kindness because he did not charge him any money nor did he expect anything in return, instead he would offer him food and help while we found an apartment. My husband would have probably spend a lot of money on a hotel if it were not for the kind act that the brother did for us while my husband found an apartment. This to me is memorable because it was exactly a year that this happened, and till this day we are very grateful for the help we received from our bother in faith. We had never experienced this type of kindness before until a year ago. Someone opening their home to a stranger and offering them food and shelter in a time of need. We were fortunate enough to be surrounded by kind people such as this man.
ReplyDeleteWow such a blessing and very kind of the man to do that! Not all people would do that for someone!
DeleteThat sounds really nice of those people to help your husband out! I'm sure that meant a lot of help to your family!
DeleteThere is not a single kindest act that I remember deeply. Rather, I have a library collection of memories of kind acts I remember since young. To me, a kind act is a selfless decision to help others in need. I have witnessed a person gave large bills to a homeless, disabled child without legs. I have witnessed a woman struggling to pay for her groceries – she was only short $0.25 – and the cashier let her go. During the times when I worked at a nursing home, I witnessed staff bring outside food to residents, even if the time taken to purchase the food cuts into employee lunch time. I witnessed a lot of strangers running to help bring my grandma’s car out of a ditch. All these acts of kindness, regardless of how big or small they seem, are extremely memorable to me because they show me that humans can be selfless and that as individualized as we want to be, humans are inherently communal creatures and work better and happier together.
ReplyDeleteYang, I enjoyed reading the detail of strangers helping your grandmother's car out of the ditch. My grandmother used to tell me every time she would buy groceries strangers would help her load them in her car. It is important to be kind to the elderly.
DeleteHey Sean! I agree with you. It makes me happy when I see the look of relief and joy on the elderly's face when others help them! Partially why I enjoyed working at the nursing home.
DeleteI like how you also acknowledge the smaller acts of kindness. No matter what it is still nice of someone to go out of their way to help another, no matter how big or small it might be.
DeleteOne of the most kindest acts I have ever seen came from my mom. It occurred in December of last year. It was a really chilly and misty day late afternoon and my mom and I went out to eat at a restaurant. Once we were done and headed out, we saw this older lady was sitting on the side walk next to our car. We also saw this dog that was by her side. She was not asking for anything, but seemed like she was feeling cold. I felt sad to see her in that state especially when the weather was not helping her situation. Yet I was glad that she was not alone, she had this great animal who seemed to care for her. I was soon to find out the dog was not the only one who cared for her. I witnessed something wonderful, I saw my mom take off her sweater that she had on at the time and when she took it off she immediately went over to the lady and gave her the sweater. I heard my mom say to her that she would like for her to keep the sweater so that she would not get sick because of the bad weather. The lady felt very appreciated and told my mom that God will bless her heart. That moment like many others, reminded me of how grateful I was to be her daughter. My mother has a heart of gold and that particular moment just proved it once more.
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DeleteThat was beautiful. I had always believed that parent teach valuable lessons to their children throughout role modeling. I’m not an animal lover, but I also believe that animals are very kind as well.
DeleteOne of the kindest acts I can remember happened a couple of years ago when I was still living in the Bay Area. A longtime patron of the public library I was working at suddenly lost his wife. He was always very cheerful and friendly to the staff and was there daily. The staff of the library collected money and bought him flowers and a card. Seeing his eyes well up with emotion and appreciation was truly heartwarming. His wife did not come with him to the library, but he spoke of her often. His emotion was truly palpable.
ReplyDeleteI agree, this is very heartwarming. So nice that the staff did something special for him, he must have been so happy.
DeleteThat is so nice that you guys would do that for him. I' sure it's something he'll cherish.
DeleteOne of the kindest acts I have ever seen was Christmas of 2013. My family and I were in the mall doing some last minute shopping and the mall was super crowded. We were in line at JcPenny and the line wasnt moving at all because there was a lady at the register trying to scrap together enough money to buy her kids some gifts for Christmas. As many of us in line started to get a little impatient, a man offered to pay for all her items. The lady was shocked at his kindness. She immediately began to thank him and burst into to tears. She explained to him that she had just lost her job a few weeks before and has been struggling to get by. I was surprised and humbled that the man offered to pay for her stuff. I think people tend to forget the true meaning to the holidays, which is supposed to be the season of giving. I love that the man was kind enough to help someone in need!
ReplyDeleteThat's so sad and sweet, Raven! I saw a movie like this before. It was about a little boy trying to buy shoes for his mom who was dying of cancer and a man bought the shoes for him. I think it's called Christmas Shoes.
DeleteThe holidays can either bring out the best or the worst in people. I'm so glad that man was so kind instead of being angry at the woman. What a great testament to the kindness in humanity.
DeleteThis is a hard one, I can say that I had been very blessed throughout my life with wonderful people around me, and sadly I had not been able to appreciate them all. I’m going to share about my brother, he was 27 years old when he died after a car accident. This happened 25 years ago, my brother and I did not get along since we were little kids. Now that I have learned about behavior and mental problems, I think that my brother had something, something that we were not able to identify back then. He was friendly but had many enemies, he had a challenging behavior, whoever knew him would think that he was crazy. Well, we, his siblings, were so used to see him as a problem, that we never stopped to release that he could be needing some professional help. After my brother died, I found out that he was a very caring person. He was taking care of the lawn and a few errands for an old/sick man who could not do it himself, and had not money to pay. This person was very thankful to my brother, he said that my brother had been doing this for over a year. They meet when this person fell crossing the street, and my brother assisted by caring him back to his house, since then they became pretty good friends. Another beautiful thing that my brother did was, he bought donation cards, the ones you buy on the grocery store for $5, $10 or $15 dollars, and that money is donated to different organizations. Now I released that my brother had a big heard, and that he carried for others more than for himself.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry about your brother, Marisol. He was a very good person to be doing all these kind acts and not telling anyone. That shows he didn't do it to show off, he did it from his heart. What a good guy.
DeleteYour brother sounded like a nice person, I'm sorry to hear about him. I think not getting along with your siblings is quite common, but your brother really shows that anyone can have good in their heart, despite what's shown externally to others.
DeleteWell Jose you don't see a lot of generous people in LA and I know that for a fact because I am from LA and seeing the way people treat others that are not to their standards it's surprising that the gentleman got out if his car and gave the homeless men some money either way we do need to think of those who are in fact in need because you might think you have it worst but believe me there are people out there who have it even worse.
ReplyDeleteI have experienced many acts of kindness throughout my life. One that sticks out in particular would be from a few years back. Every year around Christmas time our local radio station KUZZ puts on KUZZ Cares for Kids. This is an event where throughout the month the radio station reads out letters from families that have children that won’t get Christmas that year due to various hardships (single parent, parents recently lost job, recently lost someone etc). After the letters are read people can call into the station and “adopt” the family for Christmas. Every year my family and some close friends go in together and adopt one of these families. Once you get a family KUZZ provides you with some information on the family such as ages of the kids, some things they may need and some things they may want. Then right before Christmas, KUZZ hosts a breakfast at Crystal Palace where everyone brings the gifts and they have a chance to give them to the parents/family for them to give to the kids on Christmas. One year while attending the breakfast, we were able to witness something amazing. While we were waiting for our number family to be called we watched the other families get called up and receive their gifts. One family had gone up and the people that had adopted them had gotten a few gifts, but not many. I don’t remember this family’s exact story, but I remember they had to take the bus everywhere. As some of you may know taking the bus can be unpredictable, and difficult with children. Next thing we knew the people that had adopted them were handing them keys. They had gotten the family a car. It was insane! Everyone was crying because it was such a selfless and kind thing to do. The family came that morning expecting to receive a few gifts for the kids and they got that and more. While the entire morning was filled with acts of kindness, that was one that stood out for me.
ReplyDeleteThat's amazing! I bet the family was so grateful. It's sad that we take those things for granted, but we realize what we have when we see things like this.
DeleteExactly, it always puts things in perspective and makes me super grateful for what I have.
DeleteThat's exactly how I feel too, Chelsea!
DeleteThe kindest act I have ever seen was when I saw a child give money to a homeless man. What made this scenario so special, was the fact that the child had the option to buy ice cream with the money that was given by her parent. Instead of being selfish and buying something for herself, she chose to help the poor man. After she donated the spare change, she ran back to her parent and was given a high five. This act of kindness was something that I remember because I rarely see that happening. Most people walk past homeless people not giving them any concern. People do not consider that community and can walk past someone sleeping on the floor. I thought it was really cool that the parent was also excited about her act of charity. If people could raise their children to be more giving and teaching them about character, the future generation of people might be able to live more peaceful lives. Instead of raising children to be selfish and stingy, they should be encouraged to share and to help other people out. That is why this act of kindness left a strong impression on me because it gave me a feeling of hope. There is still hope that people, especially this new generation of kids, will still have manners and spread the love. It is common to see negative things happen but I believe we should not become familiar with negative behavior and instead, become familiar with positivity.
ReplyDeleteThat is sweet! It's sad because most people do just walk by and ignore homeless people. It's good that her parents are encouraging her to do thoughtful acts like this.
DeleteThis is why parenting is so important! I don't think people realize the power their behavior has on their children. This child's parents must have taught them to be generous and willing to share what they have (even if it is not much).
DeleteThis is actually very kind. For a child to give money to a homeless man, thats very special. Her parents are teaching her right.
DeleteThe kindest act I have ever seen is when a coworker of mine rescued a dog who was stranded outside of our work. It was during the summer and we went into work around 9 am. We saw the black lab laying outside in the grass trying to hide from everyone who was around. I felt so bad seeing her stranded and wanted to help her when I was off. During the day, the temperature was probably over 100 degrees. We kept thinking about the dog and talking about it while we were working. She got off of work before me and I see her drive her car to the area where the dog was. I was so saddened that the dog had been laying in the heat all day. She came inside and got the dog water and food to help the dog trust her. I saw her trying to approach the dog and then all of a sudden she was picking her up and putting her into her car. I felt so happy that my friend was doing this. Most people would just ignore that the dog was there all day and would walk right past it. I wish that more people cared about animals like my friend does because they matter too. She ended up having to have animal control pick up the dog since she couldn't keep it at her house. They told her they're in need of labs and if they didn't find her owner she would be sent to LA to become a service dog. I was extremely happy for the happy ending.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great story! I've heard a lot of amazing stories about people rescuing animals and I'm so glad that this dog will not only be safe, but also be helping someone else.
DeleteAmazing! So glad to hear that this poor dog was rescued.
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DeleteHow adorable, I love to read/hear stories about when people rescue animals because I love animals. I remember I saw a kid fox that was hurt, which was under my car and I called the apartment office so that they could call animal control. A day after, I was informed that they took him and that he was hurt. Then I was told he was brought back and that he had recuperated.
I love to hear stories like these too. It shows faith in humanity when people help innocent animals!
DeleteI’ve seen a lot of kind acts in my life. I can’t quite remember a specific act, but I can recall a man I met when I volunteered at a hospital in Fresno. He was an older man, maybe in his late 60’s. It seemed like he was always there when I came in for my shift. He was always willing to help me get around the hospital and it seemed like everyone that worked there knew who he was. I figured that he had been volunteering for quite some time, but when he told me that he had been coming in three times a week for the last 35 years I couldn’t believe it. I think the reason it surprised me so much is because people aren’t usually so generous with their time these days. Everyone is rushing to get somewhere, meet someone, or do something. Of course, there are people who volunteer a couple hours a week or every other week, but for someone to make that kind of commitment is something to admire. When I asked him why he did it, he said he didn’t have a reason. He started for a mandatory project in his twenties and just never stopped. He told me that he had developed a sort of family at the hospital. When asked why he never applied for a job there, he said that he didn’t want anything in return. He made enough from his other job and just enjoyed being able to lend an extra hand to the staff. That kind of generosity is what I strive to display.
ReplyDeleteThat is a very kind person. Volunteering for 35 years? Imagine if each one of us donates at least one hour of our time every week. Our community would improve on many ways.
DeleteHe sounds like a great man. To be so dedicated in taking the time to put his efforts into something wanting nothing in return is so awesome. The world needs more people like him.
DeleteI agree, Marisol. If everyone volunteered at least once a week, it would help so much. I don't think a lot of people realize this. What a good guy though, Kimberly.
DeleteThere are many acts of kindness that I have witnessed, but now that I will never forget involves one of my high school English teachers. She really was a teacher who cared for all her students, extremely involved with all her students. But what she did I personally did not see, but she discussed it with many of her students. It was many years ago when her children were about 11 or around that age, they are now around 22 years of age. But she mentioned that one of her neighbors had lost their job, and the father had been deported, their children were U.S citizens and still in school, the father did not want to remove their children because of the opportunity they had here. So Mrs. K (what I will call her), decided she would take these children in until their father was able to return; she fed them, clothed them, and treated them as her own. This will always be an impacting act of kindness to me,which pushes me to be a better and kinder person.
ReplyDeleteThat's so nice of her to do that. Stories like this restore my faith in humanity. It seems rare at times to find teachers that genuinely care for their students.
DeleteI agree with the above. With everything going on in the world stories like this help you keep the faith.
DeleteI loved reading your story Zelina. Such an act of sacrifice in taking care of those children. I know that those children will never forget how she cared for them and I can only imagine how thankful the father is for that teacher. I am so glad those children had someone there for them during such a rough time without their father.
DeleteOne of the kindest acts I've witnessed was me watching the interview at my church of what the church did for a particular couple that attends our church. Just a brief overview of what we do multiple times a year is what we call the "Dollar Ministry". Our pastor will announce the Dollar Ministry day a week or two in advance so everyone can remember to bring in a dollar to donate and when the day finally comes to donate, we all donate one dollar to this fundraiser. After the money is summed up, the elders of the church along with the staff will decide on what they want to do with the money and who in our community they want to impact. One particular instance that I remember is when the church donated a large sum to a couple that attends our church. The wife just got done with surgery and her family could not afford her medical bills nor her medication. The elders of the church found this information out and chose to give our donation to her and her family to help relieve some stress from her and her families shoulder. I don't recall the exact amount but it was over $2000. I don't know how often my church does this ministry but it is so rewarding when we do participate in it because we are always shown in service what our dollar went to.
ReplyDeleteThis is beautiful. I know The church made a huge impact on their lives.
DeleteThroughout my years, I’ve always wondered if we, as humans, are born good/bad or we are blank slates that learn certain behaviors. I’ve always thought people were blank slates, or referred to as tabula rasa. Our knowledge comes from experience or perception. One of the kindest gestured I witnessed was at work. A woman fumbling for her wallet realizes she doesn’t have enough money for her groceries, so she tells us she is going to go home and ask her husband for some money. As a cashier, we can suspend the order until she returns, however the person behind her asks me to let her pay for it. A total of 47 dollars, she pays for it; she tells someone to go tell the woman her groceries have been paid for, before she leaves. The woman who paid for it told me to rush through her order so the woman doesn’t come back to find her, and I comply not knowing why. This woman didn’t want any kind of recognition what so ever, she simply said, “I’m just paying it forward.” This really stuck out to me, I wasn’t sure if she was just a nice person in general or she felt as though she had a debt to repay. It was still nice to be the middle man in part of the whole transaction, and in that moment the world seemed a little bit brighter.
ReplyDeleteThis topic is hard to answer. I have seen kind things in my life but each act of kindness wasn't kinder then one another. Also I have seen many evil acts which are much more memorable then the kind acts. I would have to say the kindest act that I remember the most was most recently. My employer reached out to a customer that was struggling through these recent storms to keep there home dry. The customer was buying tarps to cover their roof. This individual was a veteran whom couldn't afford to repair their roof. My employer was able to gather funds and completely replace the roof, including the removal, and installation of the new roof. Coworkers also took part in donating there time in which they provided labor. This is a memorable event because, first off this individual as a veteran has served our country and is completely deserving in that nature alone. Also what made it rememberable is that a corporation such as my employer isn't all about making money. Community out reach is an important aspect, and that in itself makes you proud to be apart of. Nice acts don't come often anymore, I hope to be a part of as many as I can.
ReplyDeleteHey Joshua, I agree with you. Evil acts are much more indelible in the mind than kind ones. Kind acts are nice but often forgotten much faster than evil acts.
DeleteThis is so difficult to answer because kind acts are seen a lot. Whether it be someone holding the door open or picking up something for someone such as money or a wallet. I think it is so important to at least try to do one act of kindness each day because you never know what that person could be going through. Even something as small as a compliment can turn a persons whole day around. The kindest acts I have seen are the ones where a person could have little to nothing and will go out of their way to give someone less fortunate money, clothes or food even when the person needs it for theirselves. I feel this is so important because it never fails to amaze me how a person can be going through their own struggle yet find the time or money to give to someone else. I feel these are the ones that have the biggest hearts because they understand just a little bit more of what it can be like to go hungry or go broke and they can relate to it. An act of kindness allows us to escape the realm of always focusing on ourselves and focus on doing for others. Though, any act of kindness does not go to waste and no act of kindness is small.
ReplyDeleteThere are many acts of kindness that I have witnessed but there is one in particular that I will never forget. I was at the grocery store two weeks ago and there was a sick older man in front of me in line as I was waiting to pay. He kept coughing loudly as random people would stare but he was not coughing on purpose. This man was clearly sick, and he was there to buy medicine. As he was about to pay the total of the medicine was higher than expected. This man didn't have enough money to pay for the medicine, he was five dollars short. As he said he wasn't going to purchase it, the woman in front of me yelled wait, as she bought this poor sick man his medicine. The look on his face was unbelievable. He said "thank you" about five times and he had he happiest look on his face. It was very sweet of this lady to purchase his medicine because at the end of the day she was being a good Samaritan. This was the kindness act I've seen so far and I remember it so well because of the joyful look this older man had on his face.
ReplyDeleteHi Omar,
DeleteI love seeing these type of kindness they remind me of everything that is pure in life. We need more people like this in the world. Thanks for sharing.
Lets be honest in this blog entry. This one is very difficult to answer. I my self have seen act of kindness in the internet, Facebook videos and social networking experiment. How true or fake are these acts though? Some of these are maybe scripted but one of the videos that I have seen is when this guy helped a homeless man. He got him a place to stay for one week, got him new clothes, got him a haircut, got him supplies, and the most important thing he helped him to get a job. Now this former homeless person is now back on his feet working on his own and better position now. See what I mean, the only thing that we need in life is a little push to overcome the hills that is in-front of us.
ReplyDeleteI think I also saw that same video, and every time I see videos like the one you mentioned or people doing acts of kindness for others, it really makes me reflect on myself and in what ways I can also show kindness to others in need. Thus, it makes me feel more responsible to act upon an act of kindness for when I see a homeless person or someone in need.
DeleteI also saw that video. The internet as we all know it can be a tricky thing. But I have come across some cases where a person gave a homeless person money and a place to stay. It was a interesting thing to see for sure.
DeleteIt's hard to pinpoint the most selfless act I've seen, but one that's forever engraved in my mind is the day my youngest sister was adopted. For years my parents had been foster parents, wanting to adopt a little boy. Child after child came through our doors but none were able to stay. After the fourth child had left our home because the social worker decided to move him, we were devastated and heartbroken. A month later we received a phone call about a baby girl, who needed a home to call her own. She was truly an orphan and had no one to take her; without hesitation my parents opened our home. Nine months later, on a beautiful Fall day she legally became ours. That day was a celebration for my sister but also to my parents, for loving a child as their own. For many people that is not an easy task, but nonetheless they loved her. All those experiences have truly impacted me; the kindness and selflessness was unlike anything I can describe.
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ReplyDeleteThe kindest act I have ever done was when I volunteered at the Bakersfield Homeless Shelter. I volunteered because it was close to thanksgiving and our high school announced that they were looking for volunteers to help serve the homeless for a thanksgiving dinner. I decided to help out because my high school provided me with additional information about the homeless. I remember they told me that most people there did not have a family and that they would be spending thanksgiving alone. I have done other kind acts but this is the one that I remember the most because I remember seeing people so happy to see that students came to serve them their thanksgiving dinner. I felt terrible seeing how the homeless live because they live by what others donate to the shelter and they do not have a proper place to live, it is only what the shelter can provide them with. In the shelter, I noticed they do not have a fridge of their own in their own room because they all share the kitchen. I thought that was horrible because I could not imagine myself craving something at night and not be able to walk a couple of steps and get what I want. I wish people did not have to go through this kind of living and they can have a home of their own. It was a beautiful experience serving dinner for the homeless because they valued seeing that students cared for them.
One of the kindest acts I have seen would have to be when my dad would provide food and shelter for a homeless family member (my uncle). My uncle had made some bad choices and did not have anywhere to live. My dad would offer our living room, but my uncle always declined. He preferred to sleep in an old truck we had parked in our driveway. I remember taking him some extra blankets on colder nights. When morning came, he would leave his blankets folded neatly in the truck and go about his day. We would also save and serve him food that we had made that day. He would offer to mow the lawn and my dad would give him money “para la soda” (for soda). Unfortunately, my uncle passed away, which is why I think I remember these acts so well. Knowing he is gone is tough, but I also know we did whatever we could to help him.
ReplyDeleteI also want to mention another kind act I have witnessed. I am a cashier at a grocery store and people often do not have enough money for whatever it is they are buying. I have seen many people go out of their way to help the person who needs it, whether it be cents or dollars. Recently, I came across a young man wanting to pay for the groceries of the lady who was in line behind him. I proceeded to charge the young man and the lady started asking me what I was doing. I told her that the young man wanted to pay for her things just because. She looked as if she was in shock but accepted nonetheless. I think it is great when we can help people from the bottom of our hearts and not for publicity.
I see people act in kind ways every day, some are more subtle than others. But when I try to think of the "kindest act" I have ever encountered one memory came to mind. I was still a child grocery shopping with my mom. She had just recently divorced my dad and we were having trouble adjusting financially. We had finally made it to the check out line with a cart full off brand, processed food. When she went to pay she realized somewhere on the way from the house to the store her money had fallen out of her wallet and was gone. I saw her trying to fight back tears as she was grabbing my hand to leave without the groceries. Then an older woman behind us told us to get back in line and she would pay for our food. This act of kindness is something that has stuck with me over the years. If I see someone short money at any store I try to help them if I can.
ReplyDeleteJoann, I believe that the event you explained was a true act of kindness. I also think it's amazing that you always look to do the same for others.
DeleteJoann,
DeleteThat is a very nice story you have written. This truly demonstrates the aspect of kindness known as helpfulness. I have known so many acts of kindness as well. I picked an act based on caring for the birds, dogs, and insects by not spraying the yard. Being a hero is a major act of kindness, even though it is optional and hard. Kindness is based on being forgiving, giving, considerate, and being helpful. There are so many big and small acts of kindness, in everyday life. Each person should just pick one act of random kindness, whenever he or she finds an opportunity to do so. Making family members and friends (whether they are healthy or sick) breakfast is an act of random kindness. Kindness is also based on doing good deeds for other people, without being told to do so. I know that kindness reminds me of the movie Evan Almighty. You wrote a good post, because you clearly and concisely explained your story very well.
Roshaan S.
- There are beautiful people out there sharing their empathy and generosity to the world. That kind woman, as well as yourself, are among them.
DeleteThere are so many kind deeds I have seen and heard. If I could pick one of them, I would pick the fact that my mom does not spray my backyard. I remember this so well, because not spraying the yard is an aspect of caring for the environment. This means that not spraying the yard helps animals (birds, insects, and dogs) feed on plants, without falling sick or dying. This also follows that avoiding the use of pesticides and herbicides, prevents chemicals from seeping into animals’ circulatory, respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems. Other kind actions, include the following (which I heard on television): a dog giving its life to an infant (when an earthquake was taking place, and when all the parents and children left their house before it took place), and a 12 year-old boy jumping from a Christmas tree to save an infant from drowning. I also noticed that some of my teachers/professors were supportive towards me. All of these actions are kind actions I have heard of and seen. The boy jumping from a Christmas tree was a real hero, because he did a bold, dangerous, and daring activity to rescue another life. This intrigues me so much, because so many people would be afraid to try this kind of activity. The idea of the dog rescuing the baby, during the earthquake was both happy and disappointing (because the baby turned out to be alive, and the dog died). Other than that, I feel pretty happy about dogs, because they are very loyal to their masters. Dogs have real feelings, and they understand people very well. Last but not least, I would say that my teachers and professors were very supportive of me, especially when I had some hard times. They also taught me some outstanding values as well. I realized that kindness is based on support, consideration, forgiveness, helpfulness, and being a hero.
ReplyDeleteI have witnessed many acts of kindness in my life so far. After thinking hard about what was the most kindest act I have ever seen, one thing stuck out from my childhood. Every Sunday after church, my family would gather clothes we no longer needed and put them in the trunk of the car. Next, we would pick up some sweet bread from our favorite bakery. I always wondered why we did this every sunday until one day, I paid attention. My parents would give the clothes and sweet bread to a group of homeless people that lived at a park. The people were always so polite and grateful. My parents never really explained to us what they were doing until we stopped going. This act of kindness is always so memorable to me because it is a memory of my parents being a good place within their marriage and good people in the community. My parents are no longer married and I have yet to see them do a similar act of kindness. Another reason why this act always stood out to me is because some homeless people would see the clothes and their face would light up. When the people would see the sweet bread , they would look as if it was Christmas morning. As a little kid, this continuous event always made my heart warm. I would pray so hard for these people every Sunday I hoped my family was not the only people helping them.
ReplyDeleteThe first act of kindest I want to share about was made by my parents. It was when I first traveled with them to Tijuna, Mexico. Being that it is a very poor city, it is usual to see children selling food or items on the streets or also packing groceries in stores. At a age of 7; however, this was really hard for me to comprehend. I remember getting really sad and I was also full of questions. Thankfully my parents calmly explained these kids possible circumstances, but also warned me to not always be naive because sometimes these kids were placed out here to enforce sympathy on others when perhaps they weren't in need of any resources. However, I thought it was super nice that even though my parents knew of this possibility they still bought all of the boxes of "chicletes" (gum) a girl about my age at that time was selling.
ReplyDeleteThe other act of kindness was done by my boyfriend. We were traveling on a hot, three digit temperature, summer day to Los Angeles. My boyfriend viewed a lady holding her baby by her car on the opposite side of the freeway. Without any hesitation, he got of on the next exit and turned back to where she was at. Once we pulled up and walked up to her we were surprised to see three more of her children in the car. They were sweating, one had his shirt off, and the youngest of them was crying. Thankfully my boyfriend had left his ice chest in the trunk from his previous day of work with ice and drinks in it. He immediately sent me to get it off and we gave them the drinks (water and gatorades). They were very thankful and the lady even told us, "I didn't believe there was still people out there who done stuff like this." Her car had over heated, and unluckily at a spot where not one tree was close to them. We offered them a ride to where they were heading, but she was reluctant (which is understandable). She mentioned she had already called the tow truck, but it had already been about thirty minutes. We offered to wait until it arrived. Us three waited outside, while the children waited in our car with the air conditioner on. It was approximately an additional thirty minutes.
Thinking about the kindest or most selfless act I've ever seen is very difficult. I don't spend too much time out in the midst of people and I never have. I think that the kindest thing I have seen one person do for another would probably be in high school I saw a girl crying and someone that didn't know her when up to her to console her. That, to me, was something I wasn't used to. My mindset at the time was that eventually a teacher would come and help. I was not confident at all in my ability to hep that person Seeing someone help someone else in that way made me feel bad. It also made me feel like I had the power to help them if I would have just made a move. I was afraid that I wouldn't be of help, or wouldn't know the right thing to say. But this person took a chance, didn't let any of that get to them and stepped in. That changed how I viewed myself and the affect that I could have on people.
ReplyDeleteThinking about the kindest or most selfless act I've ever seen is very difficult. I don't spend too much time out in the midst of people and I never have. I think that the kindest thing I have seen one person do for another would probably be in high school I saw a girl crying and someone that didn't know her when up to her to console her. That, to me, was something I wasn't used to. My mindset at the time was that eventually a teacher would come and help. I was not confident at all in my ability to hep that person Seeing someone help someone else in that way made me feel bad. It also made me feel like I had the power to help them if I would have just made a move. I was afraid that I wouldn't be of help, or wouldn't know the right thing to say. But this person took a chance, didn't let any of that get to them and stepped in. That changed how I viewed myself and the affect that I could have on people
ReplyDeleteI don't know why my first post showed up as unknown and for some reason I couldn't delete it
ReplyDeleteSince I take mental health very seriously, I would like to share one of the most kindest act I have ever seen which was regarding a police officer helping a suicidal man relax and reconsider his decision of wanting to end his life. I came across this video on the Now This Facebook page if anyone is interested in viewing. A troubled man was sitting on the edge of a bridge, crying out that he no longer wanted to live. His tears suffocated his voice; he could hardly speak. The officer calmly approached the man and made conversation with him in a kind tone. He was not being aggressive or inpatient. The police officer made it his priority to distract him with conversation starter questions. There was one question in particular that led them to a connection. He asked the suicidal man if he liked football. After a little while of talking about football teams and how the season was going, the officer offered a hand to help him get down from the bridge safely. The suicidal man sat there for a while sobbing and then the officer said, "I am going to be seeing you every week and we're going to talk about the Redskins game." Finally, a moment after, the man took the officers hand. The officer was able to get him down safely and took him to a hospital to get evaluated. What the officer said was touching because it probably made him feel like he mattered for the first time in a long time, and made him look forward to something in life. I am thankful for the officer's empathy and I am so proud of the man who was brave enough to continue on with his struggle and decide to live.
ReplyDeleteFor anyone struggling with their mental health, remember this: You are precious. Keep fighting through and do not be afraid of seeking help. You do not have to go through the mental pain. Your life matters, you matter and the world would not be the same without you in it. Fuck the stigma, you deserve better.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
What a great story. That's so sweet of you to put the suicide lifeline number on here. You never know who could need it and it could save someones life.
DeleteHaving to think about the kindest act that tops the list, would have to be my grandmother taking in a friend of the family. The friend of the family was a homeless 20-year-old, single mother with a 3-year-old daughter, while also being 4 months pregnant. My grandmother had never met this young lady before but being a righteous woman that she was, she still opened her doors to this young lady in a time of need, with having nowhere else to go. My grandmother allowed this young lady to stay at her house for over 1 year. My grandmother only asked that she applied to get food stamps to help with groceries. She didn’t have to pay any type of rent or anything. Basically, could stay at my grandmothers for free. Now most people would have made her get a job and help with bills and whatnot. But my grandmother always believed in being a good person and helping those in need. It showed me that life is too short and you never know what one is going through in life. Never judge, but be more open-minded.
ReplyDeleteThat is so sweet of your Grandma. She's a great woman to not leave that young girl on the streets. The girl and her children will thank her forever.
DeleteI bet your grandmother was a wonderful giving woman. My grandmother also opened her home to many in need. It is such a special opportunity to have a living example of what kindness is.
DeleteI am sure I have seen a thousand kind acts during my adult years alone, but of course, now that I have to recount one I can't think of any. Story of my life. While one particular act doesn't come to mind at the moment I can think of some day to day acts that happen naturally amongst my kindergarteners. What makes these acts so special is that they happen without prompting, without an audience, and they come truly from the sweet hearts of these very young students. Any time a student is sad, upset, or crying there is always a sweet natured boy or girl there to ask "what is wrong". Usually offering up hugs or pats on the backs, quick to come to an adult to tattle on the guilty party solely to get justice for the upset student, and even more eager to offer up some prize the student may have just to make their fellow class man feel better. My favorite moments are when the students encourage each other. They cheer each other on and give the best compliments. I feel like these acts of kindness are important because they are raw and natural.
ReplyDeleteI hear about people doing random acts of kindness all the time, and it makes me happy to see what others do for others without being told to do so. One act of kindness that I remember happened at a store. I was standing in line to pay for my groceries, there was a lady in front of me with her two kids one was a baby the other was a toddler, the toddler was crying for whatever reason and the mom was trying to calm him down. The cashier told her the total and the lady realized she didn’t have enough money so she asked her if she could put some things back. The cashier told her no she couldn’t and the lady looked shock, I was kind of shocked myself because of the way the cashier said it. The cashier then proceeded to tell her that she would pay for whatever she could not afford and the women told her she couldn’t let her do that but the cashier insisted and the lady started crying and thanking her for being so kind and how grateful she was. It is nice to know that there are good people out there willing to help others. Not everyone has it easy in this world so by doing a random act of kindness you never know who you will make feel happy.
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