I'm sure you are all as saddened as I am over all of the recent tragedies that just seem to never stop. Emotionally, I have felt raw. As a parent, I have felt a little scared and a lot concerned. Despite all that has happened, I know love and kindness will prevail. I see it around me every day in little ways, and I know it can be the light in all of this darkness. So, that is what I want my family to focus on - keeping that light bright and our hearts open.
One of my favorite quotes, which I have framed in my children's rooms, is from Margaret Mead: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." Let's be the change. Let's show our children how to be the change. The best part: kindness has a ripple effect and the acts need not be large or cost money to make a difference. Even the smallest acts of kindness can have a huge impact on a community. So, let's start it! This week, can all of your families join my family in a random act of kindness (or two)? Let's spread love and kindness throughout Central Ohio all week (and beyond).
If you are looking for some ideas, here are a few from the Random Acts of Kindness website that both you and your children can do:
* Take a cold drink out to a neighbor who is working outside in the heat.Watch the kids for a sleep-deprived friend.
* Buy lunch or coffee for the car behind you in the drive thru.
* Cook a meal for someone how needs it.
* Encourage or thank a friend (a great thing for kids to do!)
* Send a "just because I'm thinking of you" note to a friend or family member.
* Write letters to residents of the local nursing home.
* Leave post it notes on your co-workers computers, or your children and spouses mirrors telling them to have a great day.
* Have your kids write nice messages (like "have a great night!") on your neighbors driveways while they are at work.
* Volunteer at the local animal shelter (my kids love reading and petting the cats and dogs)
* Secret Nice Club - the kids in my neighborhood created this club years ago where they randomly write nice notes and deliver them secretly to someone's front porch along with some treats. The kids love doing it, and the recipients love it too!
I'm also going to brainstorm some ideas with my kids at dinner tonight - making a list to post and getting them fully engaged.
If you are looking for community volunteering opportunities for your children, ages 2 -12 years old, you can find some on the Seeds of Caring website, a new local organization started by a Columbus Mom on a Mission. There are both scheduled events and also ideas for volunteering.
So, what do you say? Will you join my family and spread the kindness and love throughout Central Ohio? Please share your ideas and experiences with me by commenting in this article or on our Facebook page.
#spreadloveandkindness
Kindness and love to your family from mine,
Wendy
