No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted

According to a well known saying, "Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.' Most of the time it is the smallest act of kindness that makes a huge difference in our lives. From something as simple as saying thank you or a word of apology, to helping a stranger on the street, these random acts of kindness truly make a lot of difference.

Every year on February 17, this day is commemorated to honour this noble gesture.  Random Acts of Kindness Day was first started in Denver, Colorado in 1995 by a small nonprofit organisation, the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation.  Nine years later it spread to New Zealand in 2004.

As mentioned by the organisation, "The idea behind this day is to make the world a better place by spreading a little light around and to make kindness a part of our everyday lives. Lift someone up with your words, compliment them on their appearance… even the simplest acts can help to brighten someone’s day.' 

The day is celebrated by individuals, groups and organizations in the US to encourage acts of kindness. In New Zealand, it is celebrated on September 1st. So how can you celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Day? It can be just anything. From sharing words of encouragement and motivating a colleague, to helping your neighbour carry the grocery load, or sending a bouquet to an old or sick person, when it comes to showing kindness the list can go on and on.