Random Acts Of Kindness and Paying It Forward . . . most folks are familiar with these concepts. They prompt thoughts of 'doing good', helping others, lending a hand, offering (and receiving) kind words 
and gestures, smiles, and warmth. Giving to others, and 'giving back' for all that a person has in life are wonderful ways to live, to find reward, and fulfillment, while making someone else's day. So why not do more of it? Why not lead by example?
It's Thursday - Tip-Day for PreMeditated Acts of Kindness. My 2008 Resolution is to 'Show Gratitude' for my blessings by 'Giving Back'. The point behind PreMeditated Acts Of Kindess is to give more conscious thought to my actions and the way that I treat others - and the way that I treat 'myself'. In 2008 I'm urging folks to join me and do the same - to work at being kind because it's the right thing to do, without worrying about receiving anything in return, be it kind gesture or word, though my experience is that kindness shown is usually returned in kind.
Often, when folks perform 'acts of kindness' they prefer that their gestures are 'anonymous'. There is merit in anonymity - when you do something kind for someone else, there is no expectation for anything in return, or a pat on the back. Kind acts are typically meant to be selfless gestures with no attached expectation(s). But there is a flip side to consider - why not 'promote' kindness. Why not tell the world with the hope (or even intention) that it be 'catchy' like the common cold . . . that it will rub off on others. Treat others as you want to be treated. Lead by example. It's a win-win way to live.
When you hold a door open for someone and smile, it feels good. When you let someone merge in traffic, it promotes more cooperation on the roadways. When you make quality time for your family it promotes happiness. I could go on and on - there are so many different ways to help others, and in turn put a smile on your own face. Instead of hiding 'acts of kindness', however, share your experiences. If being kind is one of your goals, make it a centerpiece of your day, not an afterthought, or a random act, that you may or may not remember. Be conscious of your actions. Don't sleepwalk through your day. It makes a huge difference in quality of life - your quality of life, and each person that you meet along the way.
Remember: I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year. It's your choice. Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps: Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good! Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey! Let's Go For It!
Need More Inspiration? Wear Your Resolution! Make Every Day New Year's Day. Make Every Day Count. Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link: http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto
Kim M. Simpson - May 15, 2008
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