commit acts of random kindness

1) I was on the train from the airport into downtown Portland when I noticed a young woman looking rather worried. I could tell she was a little confused and concerned about where she was going. I grabbed a bus map, sat down next to her, and asked if I could help. Within a few minutes, we’d figured out she could ride the train to the end of the line, get off, and catch a different one to where she needed to go. I could tell she was relieved to know she hadn’t missed her stop!

2) I was asked for spare change by a homeless person while eating my lunch in the park. Rather than give change (I don’t like to give money, since you never know what they’ll use it for) I offered what was left of my sandwich, as I was done and didn’t really want to throw the substantial leftovers in the trash. He gratefully accepted.

I did this Saturday when I went through the fast food drive thru to get food for us starving painters.

I picked up an extra dessert. (It’s fast food…it was inexpensive.) Then, when I was handed my bag, I dug out the extra, handed back to the attendant and asked, “Would you please give this to the person in the car behind me? Thanks!”

Whether or not he actually did it, and whether or not the person in the other car appreciated it, the look on the young man’s face was worth it.

in the restaurant in which they were redeemable. Left them up by the counter so hopefully someone would see them before they ordered and paid. Don’t know if anyone used them, but I saw a couple people look at them while I was enjoying my meal.

But it is what it is. Today is Friday, and after treating ourselves to a restaurant, I left a dime in one of the gumball machines. I hope it makes some kid’s day.

I’ve decided I want to try to do this, without breaking the bank.

So at least one Friday a month, I’m going to make a “good Friday” and commit a random act of kindness.