Even A Simple Act Can Take Your Breath Away

--by prettypita, posted Dec 25, 2010

A little over a year ago, a good friend of my mom's passed away, and it was only when I tried to reach her to let her know of my mom's passing that I was told this sad news.

My mom's friend was a big part of my childhood and I remember her fondly. I hadn't spoken with her in many years, but I knew I was still her "Sunshine." My mom's friend had a sister, whom I only met as a child, but to whom I felt an instant connection. I knew immediately that I wanted to reach out to the sister. We have corresponded a few times during this last year, and her kind words and caring thoughts have brought much comfort to me in my own time of need.

On September 7, 2010, the day before the first year anniversary of my mom's death, I received a card from this woman, with a quote by Joseph Norris. It read, "Do a deed of simple kindness; though its end you may not see, it may reach, like widening ripples, down a long eternity." The attached letter brought tears of joy to my eyes. When I read the letter, I saw how my touch of "kindness" positively impacted her during what had been a difficult year with the loss of her dear sister, and I physically felt the reward of what sharing "kindness" with another truly means. I was speechless and my breath was taken away. I will cherish this letter forever. I have always thought of myself as a "kind" person, and it is something I am very proud of.

I ask everyone reading this to please "Practice Random Acts of Kindness" every day. Smile at and say hello to everyone you see today. Take that extra minute to help someone today. Reach out to someone in need today, even if you don't know what to do or what to say. The person in need will appreciate your sincerity, I promise you. Mother Theresa said, "Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless." Barbara De Angelis said, "Acts of love and kindness are never wasted. They always make a difference. They bless the receiver and they bless you, the giver." Just a simple "thinking of you" can brighten someone's day. I know this to be true. The reward can simply make you smile or bring tears to your eyes. It can even render you speechless, and it can most definitely take your breath away.

I would like to say thank you to my new friend, the woman who sent me the Joseph Norris quote. You have been a comfort in my life during this past year and the "kindness" you have showed me has meant so much at a time when I have needed it most. I will always feel connected to you in this unique and special way we share. Your letter relieved some of the sadness I was feeling at that moment and brightened the end of a difficult first year. Sharing with you has brought something to light that I have always known in my heart but want to share, and that is. . . . . . . . .

I know my mom lives on in me. I feel her when I smile at and say hello to everyone I see. I feel her when I reach out to someone in need. I feel her when I look at my children because I know she looked at my brother and me the same way. I feel her when I accept and appreciate another for who they are. I feel her when I breathe, because if it wasn't for her, I wouldn't be here. I feel her when I sleep, because I know she is there, soothing my tired soul. My mom lives on in me because I am a part of her. Thank you, Mom, for giving me the gift of your "kind" heart. I miss you. I love you.

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Posted by prettypita
Dec 25, 2010
Comments (22)

Readers Comments

bookworm58 wrote: I loved your story and your right that acts of kindness can spread further than we could ever know. May each act of kindness bring you happiness.

oldgirl wrote: What a beautiful story and how great that you were able tohelp sunshine during a difficult time for her - as it would have been for you too prettypita.

Your mother would be so proud of you and is with you every step of the way i am sure.

Debbie Crosby wrote: I know my mom lives on. What a beautiful touching story. Made me think of the special people that have touched my life in this world and have moved on. To those of us that our fortunate to still have our parents this speaks volumes. Thank you

Karen wrote: Losing someone we love cracks open our hearts and makes us so much more compassionate than we were before that great loss. Now we are one with all others who have loved and lost, no matter how it happened or who it was. It is beautiful to feel your flowering compassion blessing others, my friend. Be well and keep feeling everything to the bottom, for there you will find the key that opens the door to your heart and soul.

Lynn wrote: A very touching story. I was brought up to believe that when one door closes somewhere a window opens and what seems like a end can be the beginning of something wonderful. It's all a matter of positive thinking and the power of paying it forward! Keep smiling!

Lynn wrote: I would like to take this time and opportunity to express my sadness at the loss of your dear mother, she sounds as if she was a wonderfully kind hearted person who transcended her gifts to her family, which in itself is a wonderful and great legacy she has left behind. As i am also sure you will be a great inspiration to all you give to in life and meet, becuase of your mum's teachings and blessing's. May god take care of your broken heart right now and give you the comfort and strength you need in the healing process. God bless!

cathy wrote: "do a deed of simple kindness; though its end you may not see, it may reach, like widening ripples, down a long eternity. "

Rocking wrote: This is a truly beautiful account. It made me regret some unkind thoughts i have had of others over the years. It made me think of how they probably have had unkindnesses done to them and so passed it on to me and i had those thoughts. Let me change my thinking to only, always kindness. So many people are hurting. Let me be part of the kindness revolution and turn this chain reaction of unkindnes around to a chain reaction of kindness. Let it begin with me.

Michele wrote: I am sure your mom is looking down from heaven with a big smile. :) she would be very proud of you i am sure for your kindness.

jaikarkaur wrote: At work, we recently had a presentation on angels in ervyday life. Your story made me think of how the spiritual world is touching us at every minute.

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