Here in New Zealand it is officially National Random Acts of Kindness Day. It’s also the first day of Spring – what better time to honour kindness and celebrate the sheer joy of being alive?
All around the country there are big and little plans for commemorating this special day. Some of them will be very public, and others will be quite anonymous. All sorts of activities are planned –free mini muffins, flowers, movie passes, shoe shines, car washes, chocolates, lunches, etc will be being given to passersby. Councils, businesses, organisations and individuals are all gearing up to make this a day in which they give freely with no thought of getting anything back in return.
The idea came about in 2004 when two friends Josh de Jong and Marshall Gray were chatting over a cup of coffee. Since then it has really taken off. I’m going into town shortly and it will be interesting to see what is happening there. I will be participating too and it will be great to see a smile on someone’s face in response.
So how will you react if a complete stranger comes up to you today and gives you a hug, hands you a flower in the street or offers to pay for your cup of coffee? What will you do if the attendant in your parking building waves you through and tells you that there is no need to pay?
Will the thought that someone has showed you a kindness lift your spirits? Will your step be a little lighter? Will you make sure that you pass the kindness on in some way to another stranger? Or will you turn away because you are a little suspicious and wonder where the catch is?
How will you celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Day?
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