To be alive is to make a difference. The choice to make a positive difference is up to each one of us. The contribution of a single person may not seem like much, but positive choices have a way of inspiring others. Who knows how far the ripples of a good deed will travel?

We all have a limited number of hours to spend before death takes us. This very moment, here and now, is a good time to take stock of how we are spending that precious time. There will be no re-sets, re-runs or refunds when it is all over. My life is a gift to me; what I make of it is my gift to those who share the planet with me.

If you decide to reach out beyond what you are already doing, think things through first. Will you enjoy the activity? Will it bear your personal touch? Will it truly benefit others? Are you in for the long haul?

*ENJOYMENT is the key to avoiding burn-out. Don't jump into anything just because the need is great. Think about what you enjoy doing, and how you can share that to benefit others. If you love dogs and outdoor sports, walk you disabled neighbour's dog or coach a soccer team instead of taking on a library job just because somebody is pressuring you..

*PERSONAL involvement will be remembered longer than your accomplishments. People will remember your smile long after they have forgotten the sandwiches you made. Don't limit yourself to mega-projects organized by others. It is possible (although perhaps a little more risky) to reach out to others without a middle man. You can start with something as simple as a friendly visit, playing a game, letting someone into a line-up ahead of you, or lending a helping hand.

*Consider the CONSEQUENCES of what you are doing. Sometimes it is better to challenge, encourage, and teach others rather than do things for them. Act in their best interest without worrying about what kind of impression you are making. Random and anonymous acts of kindness carry a special blessing.

*COMMITMENT is required to build and maintain relationships. Don't take on too much at once, and think about boundaries before you begin. If one hour a week for six months is all you are sure you can manage, stick with that for starters. You can always increase your commitment later.

Hans Selye, the physician who popularized the concept of stress in 1956, recommended a lifestyle of "altruistic egoism" to combat the effects of daily wear and tear. Doing good deeds breaks through self-absorption, impacting both physical and mental health. According to studies by Allan Luks (published in 1991), those who are kind to others experience an endorphin rush followed by a period of satisfaction which recurs whenever the good deed is remembered. Altruism has been credited with relieving isolation and depression, decreasing sensitivity to pain, and strengthening the immune system. When you choose to do good, the life you enhance may be your own.

For more inspiration, visit:

http://www.actsofkindness.org/

http://www.thelovefoundation.c om/

Learn more about this author, Christine G..
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