I was recently getting my morning caffeine fix. As I pulled up to the coffee window and got ready to pay for my beverage, the barista told me the person in front of me had already paid for my drink. This completely took me by surprise. It was the first time this has ever happened to me.
I of course wanted to do the same and carry on the good deed, so I decided to pass on the good deed to the person behind me. My hope was to create the same emotion I experienced when I was told someone else purchased my coffee. The happiness and joy I felt completely set the mood for the entire day. Who knew such a small gesture would set the mood for me?
The year 2020 wasn’t at all what I was expecting. I’m sure none of us ever imagined living in such unprecedented times. With so much stress and anxiety, the fact that 2020 still brought us small acts of kindness went and will continue to go a long way.
I did a lot of walking on our Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail for most of the summer and fall, and the number of times I was greeted by “good evening,” “hello” or a smile was astronomical. Those little comments and gestures were so nice to receive. As we approach the end of the year and gear up for the holiday season, it’s the perfect time to share kindness and joy with everyone around us. Lucky for us, November is National World Kindness Month. Let’s take this month to spread kindness and finish it on a good note.
I found an article on SixtyandMe, titled “The Great Kindness Challenge: What’s Yours?.” I really enjoyed reading it, especially how it ended. I think it’s a good way to really embrace National World Kindness Month.
“Kindness doesn’t have to be complicated. You can tailor your kindness challenge to whatever fits best for you,” the article explains, adding examples, like thanking the person cleaning your grocery cart for helping to protect your health.
It’s funny to think a simple interaction can make a day a little better. I challenge you to do the same and finish the year off with many acts of kindness.
Jessica Arroyo is a community liaison for Health Alliance Northwest™, serving Chelan, Douglas, Grant and Okanogan counties in Washington. She was born and raised in the Wenatchee Valley. During her time off, she enjoys spending time with her husband and her two very busy kids.