Going Out of Your Way to be Kind

This has been a challenging year for so many reasons, but I think one positive that’s come out of it is more awareness of others. I personally have been reflecting more about others’ needs and how I’m helping to be a better person and better example for my kids.

I’ve always tried to put myself out there and volunteer when possible, and I’ve encouraged my kids to do the same. But being kind goes well beyond a volunteering opportunity here and there. It should be a daily practice as well.

Random Acts of Kindness

As the weather gets cooler here in Phoenix, I know that the homeless struggle with keeping warm. It must be even more difficult than normal with COVID. I bought some blankets to keep in the car and have given them to people who look to be in need. It feels good to give and I hope that the recipient is able to sleep a little better at night.

I also like to get food for those in need, rather than give money. It feels better to give something tangible that everyone could use. The other day, Lucy and I were in the McDonald’s drive-through line and I decided to get a burger for the homeless man who was sitting outside. It hardly cost me anything and I think it showed Lucy how to care about the community. She saw how grateful he was for the burger, which I hope will impact her for years to come.

Random Connections

People are lonely right now. They’re struggling with not being able to get together with loved ones or co-workers. Plans have been scrapped for holiday travel and gatherings. But we still need connections; we’re human, after all. Take time to reach out to someone you haven’t talked to in a while and send an email, a text or even a direct message on Facebook. Let them know you’re thinking about them!

You can also put a handwritten note in the mail because who doesn’t love getting snail mail? This is a great way to connect with team members, clients, or co-workers who you haven’t seen in a while and it’ll brighten up their day.

Carry it Forward

Part of my upbringing in Judaism is to carry it forward. We learned through Tzedakah, which is spontaneous acts of goodwill, to give back to the community through intentional acts and to even give without others knowing you’re giving (anonymous donations, volunteering without feeling the need to share your volunteerism everywhere).

Charlie has learned this through his high school, where the code is “men for others.” He’s learning to be a pillar of the community and to be a good person. I believe these values will serve him well in life, and he’s been able to teach Jeff, me, and his siblings more about community and giving.

This time of year, and especially this year, it’s important to be kind and to find ways to reach out and serve others. My hope is that if we all intentionally practice this, we’ll be able to carry these new habits into the new year.

Tell me your favorite way to give back to others, or to support your community!