The No Return Policy

"Love and kindness are never wasted.  They always make a difference.  They bless the one who receives and they bless you, the giver."
-Barbara De Angelis

Kindness is never wasted.  No matter how big, no matter how small - it always makes a difference…. in at least two lives.  Let's give that a moment to sink in.  

How many THINGS do you have that can make a difference like that?  Material things - not that many probably.  Kindness is free - it is a gift to the giver and a gift to the receiver.  You don't have to save up for it and you certainly don't have to ask for a gift receipt.  

There is a no return policy for the gift of kindness.

Today's Starfish

Today, Sarah, Devon and I decided we would focus on being courteous all day - letting people go in front of us in lines and in traffic; spending a few extra seconds spreading joy through our words and body language.  

I asked the girls to write a little blurb about their experience for the blog and want to share these with you:

Sarah -

"Today was our YMCA's 50th Birthday Celebration.  We had cupcakes, water bottles and a balloon launch at 3pm.  I was so excited to get to do my Starfish task today!  I smiled and greeted everyone I met and they were all so friendly back; I could tell they appreciated the sincerity in someone asking how their day was and continuing on the conversation after their response instead of just saying "that's good" and walking away.  I even made balloon animals for the kids!  Their faces just lit up with joy when they got to take home a bunny or a puppy balloon!  Today definitely helped me realize how sometimes we ask how someone's day is going, but never truly listen to the response.  It's helped me really open up to listening and responding in a way that lets the other person know I truly care."

Devon - 

"Isn't it crazy how when you are in a hurry, you are quick to anger?  Someone cuts you off and all hell breaks loose in your car.  Today it was my goal to take some extra time so that I could be courteous to others.  I was able to let several people go ahead of me at the turn.  I parked further away so that it might make someone's day to get a closer parking spot.  Hopefully these little acts impacted others.  Strangely, it really helped me to stay positive because I wasn't pissed off at someone for making me late.  It really is the little things that can make or break your Monday."

Our challenge to you this week - do something like what Devon and Sarah did.  Truly listen to someone when you ask how their day is going.  Park further away and give up your close parking space.  Spread your joy to children because we all know their smiles are contagious.    Let someone out in front of you rather than hurrying on your way.  

Your kindness is never wasted.