In a world that seems dominated by greed, it’s reassuring to know that there are still people who believe in doing things for others, expecting nothing in return. ‘Paying it forward’ can have a butterfly effect, which just might cause a revolution of kindness.
Help Yourself Horticulture
One idea is to plant window boxes with herbs, then securely fasten these to the outside of your wall or fence. Add a little sign that says ‘Help yourself’. Similarly, if you grow your own fruit and vegetables, you could put any that are surplus to requirements in a box near the pavement, with a notice saying ‘Overstock Box’: feel free to take from, or add to this box of produce. For those who like propagating flowers and shrubs, display a sign that says ‘Free to a loving home’, with a tray of seedlings underneath. Even if passers-by don’t partake, your random act of kindness should warm their hearts and possibly give them ideas of their own.
Shopping List
If you have neighbours who are elderly, infirm or disabled, see if they’d let you fix a white board to the outside of their front door, so they could list jobs they needed help with, such as grocery shopping or picking up a prescription from the surgery. If a pen was attached, anyone concerned that they’d not seen the resident for a day or two, such as a postal worker, could also leave a note. Of course, they may not agree to the notice board but you could still give them your phone number, as well as calling in for a chat occasionally. Loneliness can be a huge factor for vulnerable people living on their own.
Care Packages
Virtually every large town and city in the UK have people sleeping rough. Whatever the reasons (and for many it has nothing to do with substance abuse or being lazy) it is a very sad fact of life in our society. If you don’t believe in giving money to people who beg, why not make some care packages that can be distributed by a local charity? Items that would be appreciated include razors, wipes, combs/brushes, toiletries, sanitary items, etc. In addition, socks, scarves, hats and gloves are always needed. You could even sponsor a young homeless person so that they might get off the street permanently.
Little Bits
If you see someone struggling with a suitcase or pram on the stairs, offer to help. An elderly person may welcome a lift home with their shopping. If you’ve mown your lawn, ask if you can do your neighbour’s. Bake some cakes for a local nursing home or hospice. Save your loose change and each month donate it to a different charity. Help someone search for their missing cat or dog. People may refuse but that’s okay; you offered.
No matter how small and seemingly insignificant, random acts of kindness do have a knock-on effect and can only make the world a better place.
Collaborative Post