Stories of Kindness from Around the World

My First Smile Card Experience - But Not the Last!


--by icecream, posted Jan 6, 2018
On a recent trip to California, I was introduced to Smile Cards. I promised myself to initiate an act of kindness before I left California. I kept thinking about it but I didn't know how or what to do. 

I reached the airport and the boarding was about to begin, when something just suddenly clicked. I saw an ice-cream store and I went to the store and told the guy at the store (Jose) that I want to do an act of kindness. He looked confused. I kind of expected that! Then I told him I had just attended a conference, met an incredible and humble human being who inspired me to do an act of kindness, and told me about Smile Cards. Jose was intrigued, and was curious about what I was going to say next. 

I told Jose, "Whoever is your next customer, treat them to a single scoop of ice-cream and then give them this Smile Card."  Jose curiously read the card and agreed with a smile that was both grateful and confused at the same time. 

Since this was my first time, I wanted to know the reaction of the receiver.  I know I should've just given it, but I couldn't resist.  "Jose, I have to catch a flight, but here is my cell phone number. Would you be kind enough to call me and tell me the person's reaction?  It's the first time I'm doing this, and I'm really curious."  He agreed. I thanked him and we parted ways elated and full of smiles.

The moment I left the ice-cream store, the feeling in me was crazy. I had never experienced such a feeling before. It was insane. I was happy, elated, curious, doubtful all at once. Yet, I knew that something good was about to happen!

I went to my gate, and right as I about to board, Jose called. "I did the act of kindness, and the person was so very happy, extremely happy in fact, and asked me to relay the gratitude to the anonymous person who paid for them!" I again thanked Jose and boarded the flight feeling tall. "Wow, this is soooooo cool," I felt without any words.

It was my first act of kindness, and I really want to continue this practice of kindness. By trade, I am a professor and working to be a licensed counselor in Texas. I love my work because it makes a difference in the lives of others. And now, I realize that I can do that everywhere. The whole world is my playground.
 
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Readers Comments

Helen wrote: Wonderful! What will make this even more wonderful if the receiver of this kindness passes it on to the next person
Helen wrote: Wonderful! What will be even more wonderful if those who receive this kindness will pass it on to the next person.
glenystas wrote: It is addictive. Once you start you cannot stop. Lol
kalaa wrote: What a wonderful thing to do, keep it up.
miishen king wrote: Reading this act of kindness, i am going to try it. The story lifted me up spiritually!
mittalrashmi wrote: Great presence of mind



MakeSomeoneSmile wrote: What a cool story! Thanks for sharing your experience! Smile cards are awesome, not just for the receiver but the giver too, like you saw! Keep up the great work!
marleen wrote: Awesome!! Google for lists of kindness acts, it will help you keep this up easily..and you'll fly high! ^-^
mindyjourney wrote: oohh, love your anonymous name and first SMILE card act :))). Well done, my friend :)))!
Mish wrote: What a wonderful share. So made me smile to hear about your first adventure with Smile Cards. Here's to many more :))

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