Give Random Acts of Kindess a Try!

One dismal evening, just a few months ago,
When the sky was dark and the streets were covered with snow,
I had nothing specific in mind and wasn't sure what to do,
Since it was one of those chilly nights that leave you feeling a bit blue,
I shuffled through a few papers and picked up a book
And without giving it much thought, decided to take a look.
It was one of those volumes filled with dozen of stories
That told tales of victories, failures, and special glories.
There was an account of a boy who went to school and learned,
And another of a girl who got the toy for which she yearned.
Then I came to a story about someone just like us
Who decided to spend a day doing random acts of kindness.
Every thoughtful gift and kind word said with grace,
Brightened someone's day and left a smile on their face.
I sat back to ponder the story and came up with a thought--
If everyone tried to share some happiness and kindness sought,
Wouldn't our world be so much more pleasant than it is now
When a few more smiles and time for others we'd allow?
I baked a batch of cookies today, and I know a lady down the street
Who I'm sure who would love a few moments' company and a home-baked treat,
And her lonely neighbor who always seems a bit sad and gray--
I think a nice visit from someone would make her day.
well, it was starting to get late, so I decided to get some sleep
After I made a list of things to do the next day and appointments to keep.
When I got up in the morning I went to school with a goal in mind--
I would try to cheer a few people up and find ways to be kind.
I bid "Good Morning" and smiled at everybody I met.
A few returned the greeting, then our separate ways we went.
Someone dropped their books, so I helped gather them willingly,
And I noticed the more I helped other, the more they helped me!
After I went home I packaged some cookies to share,
Attaching a note that said,"Just because I care."
When they opened doors, you should have seen their faces light with glee
And watched their smiles as they exclaimed,"You mean you came to visit lonely old me!"
Later in the evening, I sat down and wrote a few notes
Wishing the recipient a great week, before sealing them in envelopes.
Then I took a few moments to think about my day
And realized I received even more joy than I had given away;
Because every time you smile or with a cheerful word part,
The warmth of that kindness penetrates into your own heart.
We're only given a short time to spread some cheer before we die,
So why not give random acts of kindness a try?

Melissa Broeckelman