World Kindness Day

By Kristen Killinger, MS

“Imagine what our neighborhoods would be like if each of us offered, as a matter of course, just one kind word to another person.” ~ Fred Rogers

It is no surprise that Mr. Fred Rogers has been an iconic childhood inspiration to millions of children. His legacy is one of love, acceptance, but most of all, kindness. This Saturday, November 13th, is designated as World Kindness Day. But, what exactly is kindness? The dictionary defines kindness as, “the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate.” However, being kind is not always easy – it often requires courage, strength, and resiliency.

This past summer, my son and I were checking out at a local store, and we came across this intricately folded, origami-style star, with a note attached. The note read, “Hello! You found me on purpose – please take me with you! I just wanted to remind you what an amazing person you are  You are loved!” In that single moment, my son went from upset about something that happened earlier in the day, to beaming from ear to ear. The back of the note described how this star was made by a 10 (now 11) year old boy to spread love and joy. That simple yet profound random act of kindness changed our moods instantly. The note also gave a Facebook group and Instagram handle, so we immediately shared our find, and that is how I became involved as a Kindness Ambassador. (Facebook Group – Kindness Stars; Instagram: #kindnessstars)

As the school year was quickly approaching, Wyatt, the young man responsible for creating these stars, reached out and asked if anyone would be willing to spread kindness by “hiding” his stars wherever they go – be it schools, businesses, traveling, shopping, anywhere! I was sent a box of stars, and became a Kindness Ambassador on behalf of Wyatt and his vision. His stars have reached across all 50 states and over 23 countries across the world. After receiving my box of stars, I shared them with our school family at Central Dauphin East High School in Harrisburg, hiding them around the school over the course of the first month of school.

At a time when mental health has mattered more than ever to our clients, we must also be kind and show grace to ourselves. Showing kindness does not have to be an elaborate endeavor. Here are some simple ways to show kindness towards others:

- Share a compliment with a family member, friend, or even a stranger

- Hold the door for someone else

- Send an uplifting text

- Send a card through the mail or a hand written note

- Let that car merge in front of you (even though they didn’t even look!)

- Be gentle – with others, and with yourself

- Pay for the order behind you in a drive thru

- Leave post it notes of encouragement for others to find

“A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees.” ~Amelia Earhart