Good Works ~ Just Because!

Small acts of kindness go a long way. Your good works could change someone's day.

~ Stacy J. Coles

When was the last time you did something nice for someone you know, just because? When was the last time you helped someone you didn't know, just because?

We don't need a reason to serve those around us. Opportunities to do good works are everywhere. Does it take time? Sure. Does it take effort? Of course. Is it worth it? Absolutely!

We might not be thanked or recognized for doing good things, but we shouldn't serve expecting to be rewarded. Knowing we've carried someone's burden, made things easier, or just brightened someone's day will bring us enough satisfaction to want to do it again. Yep! It's addictive. When we see that we've made a difference in someone's life, even for just a moment, we will want to do it again and again.

Many of us take advantage of holiday seasons to do service activities with religious groups or family members. But, it's not just during the holidays that neighbors and strangers might need a pick-me-up.

One day, many years ago, I came home from dropping off all three of my kids at school and suddenly realized how quiet my house was. I found myself cleaning ferociously, hoping to keep the lonely tears away. The doorbell rang and I was surprised to see my neighbor standing on my porch holding fresh-cut flowers from her garden. The stems were simply tied together with a ribbon. She said she was gardening and thought of me. I thanked her, put the flowers in a vase with water, and placed them on the table. I found myself smiling every time I walked by. It didn't make me miss my kids less, but it made me feel good to know someone was thinking about me ~ just because.

Fresh-cut flowers, a plate of cookies, a friendly note ... these are simple acts of kindness that can bring happiness to those we know, and might not know. We may never realize the impact we can have on someone's day, but acts that we consider simple or insignificant could mean the world to the recipient of that kindness.

Look for an opportunity to do something nice or help someone in need and relish the moment, knowing you might have been exactly what they needed. It just might put a smile on your face, too.

Good Works