Stories of Kindness from Around the World

Breaking My Six Week Streak


--by Juan G., posted Nov 2, 2008
I'm a bit of an introvert. I've spent every weekend so far this year in my room or in the library working. It doesn't matter what kind of work, school work, debate work, just work that requires only a book, word document, and a quiet space.

So yesterday when my friend asked me to go to an improv show with her after dinner I habitually retorted "No thanks, I have a lot of work to do." I didn't anticipate this being much of an argument, but 10 minutes and a few persuasive exchanges later I found myself saying "Ok I'll go, but just this once."

I was still in a bit of shock about my response, to be honest. I had broken my streak of 6 straight weeks without socializing. But I couldn't say no to my friend this time.  I decided I would be a kind fellow and keep her company so she could have a fun and enjoyable Friday night. After all, not everyone finds enjoyment from homework in the library.

Three hours after my concession I found myself back in my room. I sat there and realized, I actually had fun. I enjoyed going out. I had helped my friend have fun. She laughed, she talked, she smiled, and most of all she had a good time. But more importantly, I had been in her company while she had fun. And sometimes that is all one needs, is companionship and someone with whom to share experiences.

An act of kindness doesn't always have to be selfless and doesn't always have to be drastic. We don't have to undergo excruciating pain and suffering for our actions to be considered kind. We don't have to save the world or end global hunger to make a difference. Sometimes all we have to do is share. Share a cookie, share an old story, share a laugh. But most of all share an experience.

Ultimately it's the experiences we share with others that we remember most. And being able to give people memories of experiences shared is one of the kindest acts we can do for someone else.
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Readers Comments

Patt wrote: I wish more people would do this small act of kindness. I have found that the elderly are most appreciative of any small act of this sort, a ride in the country on a beautiful fall day can make a world of difference. Today i asked a friend to go for a walk with me cause i am feeling down but she had stuff to do. I really needed that small act of kindness today.
mil1lion wrote: Its true that giving your time is an easy away to be kind.

I spend alot of time studying, working and easily say no to offers to go out, but im trying to turn that around.
Elinore wrote: Gosh, you are so right. Sometimes a person just needs companionship to feel better and just relate to another person, or two.

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