Stories of Kindness from Around the World

Kindness Makes a Difference


--by LindaBurhans, posted Aug 22, 2015
Kindness is a simple answer in a sometimes difficult and challenging world. I know that to be true. For a long time now it has been my mission to acknowledge and appreciate all people and to encourage others to do the same.

When my granddaughter Skylar, was young and we’d go out, we had a contest called “Who can make the most people smile. “ And we continue it today. It makes for a wonderful glorious day. We will be walking in the supermarket and someone will be walking down the aisle with her head down. Skylar walks up to her and gives her a big smile. I watch her walk down the aisle, turn around and smile at Skylar again or perhaps smile at someone else.

Kindness is a chain that pulls us all together. Anything that lifts another person is kindness. Every single act of kindness has a ripple effect. In 2002, my dad had a series of strokes and other illness. At that time, I was the facilitator for a large women’s networking organization. One day I asked the ladies if on a personal level they could send their positive energies my dad’s way and maybe go out and do something nice for someone, someone for whom they would not normally think to do something nice.

My dad has been doing nice things for all sorts of people for years, from the street crossing guard, to the waitress in a restaurant, to a friend’s mother. That same day, I made cookies for the janitor at the post office. When I gave him the cookies he actually looked a little embarrassed. “Why, Linda?” he asked. “Because I appreciate you!” I answered. “When I get here at 6am and it is still dark out and it is a little scary, I know you are inside and I feel safe. And when I first moved here and my post office box was always empty, you always cheered me on. And you keep this place spotless.” That evening his wife called me and said that he was overwhelmed. “No one even knows his name never mind bakes him cookies! 
4763 Reads

Readers Comments

rajni wrote: Almost 5 years past after your this post, you may have tons of other stories. Janitors are real heroes who work hard to keep places clean and safe. They dearly deserve the appreciation.

You did a wonderful job. Thanks for sharing this inspiration.
Phoenix wrote: That was a powerful message i felt it inside.
lynettecsst wrote: Thanks for writing such a touching story. It moves me to make others happy even during my journey.
krissymosley83 wrote: Amazing!
peggy eagle wrote: What heart warming stories. Simpl acts of kind niceness mak the world a warm, more friendly place. I am so touched by these stories go loving kindness that i canlt wait to be mobil again to join in the fun. Mean while, i 'll pratice on my husband who is a marveless cregiver. Iam so graeful to have him care for me.
Lynne wrote: Thanks for a lovely, lovely story!
Dorothy McCormick wrote: I am delighted by all of the member responses, to me and to others. I'm happy to be included in this circle of positive energy. It's electric!
Lizzie wrote: Such a simple act of kindness but with huge outcomes. I did a similar thing and baked a chocolate cake for some builders working on a roof in winter. They were overwhelmed and weeks later i need a large carpet removed from my 2nd floor flat , they came over straightaway! Later in the week i made them another cake!
SeaMar67 wrote: I'm beaming just reading about the miles of smiles you and Skylar set in motion. What a beautiful story of full circle kindness! You learned from your dad and have passed it on to your grand-daughter. Thank you.
mindyjourney wrote: Thank you for encouraging kindness, my friend :))). Unfortunately, I am unable so see the close of your post.

Add A Comment