by Jessica Shayne

Created on: March 06, 2009   Last Updated: March 16, 2009

A Helping Hand

Kindness can spread like a weed if nurtured even the slightest. It is human instinct to be kind to others, to help those that need a hand, unfortunately with todays fast paced high-tech world, we usually don't take the time to stop and think about others.

Far too many people today feel they deserve to be paid for every little thing they do, even if it would better themselves, their relationships with their neighbors or even the world.

Every single day there is something that you can do for someone else. We can all certainly find time to be kind without taking away from our own lives. Our lives in fact would be far richer if we offered our assistance to others now and then. By simply smiling at people, you can change your own mood from crabby to content, and perhaps brighten their mood as well. You will gain through helping others, a sense of pride and satisfaction unobtainable by any other means.

There are plenty of organizations willing to take in volunteers; homeless shelters, soup kitchens, hospitals, animal shelters, libraries, schools, local charities and probably most businesses would as well, if only asked.

If volunteering isn't your forte, there is plenty you can do on your own. Mowing your neighbors lawn, shovelling their driveway, helping them carry groceries or offering to do their shopping while you do your own, caring for their pets while they are away, walking their pets(or kids) when they are ill and many other seemingly small tasks would be greatly appreciated by anyone, especially those in need.

While you are out and about, hold the door open for someone, if they seem lost don't wait for them to ask you, approach them and kindly ask if they need your help. Many cities have planted community gardens which is a great way for people to assist others, beautify their community and get a workout at the same time.

Bringing home baked goodies to a sick neighbor or delivering freshly brewed coffee to those working outdoors in cold or wet weather would surely brighten their day.

The possibilities are endless when you really consider the many ways there are that we can help each other. We would reap huge benefits from even a small amount of kindness. By teaching our children the benefits of kindness today, we will be improving their world for tomorrow.

The best gift you can give yourself is to give of yourself to someone else.

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