Acts of Kindness

“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” — Leo Buscaglia

Several months ago, my husband and I spent a Saturday morning, along with our daughter, feeding the homeless at a local park. We debated for quite some time about the safety of taking our child. But, then we learned that the group responsible for organizing the event had specific rules in place. Those individuals being served had to uphold certain standards before they were able to receive a ticket into the park. Things like drug use, weapons, and criminal histories were only a small amount of information that was checked. If there was any food left at the end of the day, it was taken by a small group of adults to those who were not allowed into the park. We made the decision to go, and looking back, I am so grateful we did.

We are often taught the importance of helping and serving others. It does not matter if we agree with decisions they have made, as Christians, we are called to provide for our brothers and sisters through our service. But that day was about more than serving food. We played with the children, made crafts with the old and the young. We visited with veterans, laughing at some of their stories and lending a listening ear. At the end of the day, we walked away with more than we gave.

You see, in giving, in taking the time to give that smile, that authentic conversation, those kind moments, we learn about ourselves. And somewhere along the way, we are reminded of the power of those moments.