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To my surprise, that little sedan ahead of me did not move. I watched– could he be distracted? No, the man was attentive. He was just waiting. The honks I had feared did begin to sound, but he ignored them.
When the car in the third place finished, and drove off, he casually pulled into space one, with me behind him.
Tears did flow as I got out to pump (I blame the hormones). I looked him in the eye and thanked him for waiting. It had made a big difference to me.
He shrugged and said, “Well, it’s the polite, normal thing to do.”
I pondered his words as we both drove away from the station. Situationally, the man’s behavior had been abnormal. But his integrity was not situational. And to me, he was an angel.
In a world that often feels hurried and disconnected, a simple act of kindness can make all the difference.
Acts of kindness definitely benefit the recipient, but it can also profoundly impact your own health and well-being. In other words, kindness is good for you– whether you give it or get it!
What happens when you give Kindness
Practicing kindness comes with a slew of research-backed symptoms, starting with the release of feel-good hormones like oxytocin and serotonin. These chemicals help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even boost your immune system. In fact, studies have found that people who engage in regular acts of kindness experience lower levels of anxiety and depression.
When we do something nice for someone else our brains release dopamine, creating what’s known as a “helper’s high.” This natural high not only lifts our mood but also improves our overall sense of well-being.
And, of course, kindness is a building block of positive relationships. Showing thoughtful compassion for others builds meaningful connection and creates an organic ripple of reciprocal behavior. Positive social interactions based on kindness lead to stronger bonds with friends, family, and even strangers, which in turn enhances our emotional health.
At White Lake Press, we believe in the transformative power of kindness. To quote the poet, Amanda Gorman,
“For there is always light,
if only we’re brave enough to see it.
If only we’re brave enough to be it.”
Today, we need the light of kindness more than ever. One by one, we can make the world brighter and kinder. Act by act, real change can happen in our homes, communities, and even the world.
Small Acts, Big Impact
Practicing kindness doesn’t require grand gestures. Simple acts like sharing a compliment, reaching out to a friend, and leaving an encouraging note all make a difference.
And because teaching our children compassion and kindness is vital to their health, relationships, and overall well being, we value anything that models effective kindness.
Next week, Sneaky Sneakerton and the Brazen Bully launches 2/25/25. This book explores the complex theme of showing kindness, even when people do not court it or deserve it.
And to celebrate the book’s release, we are launching Sneaky Sneakerton’s Sneaky Service Club!
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