I do love the ‘Make Life Special’ challenges each month.
For February, which heralds St Valentines Day, I will give you something rewarding to do and it won’t be to go out and propose to someone; although, if you do, I wish you every success and let me know how it goes! (Now I’m excited thinking about that).
St Valentines Day is one of those moments that combines excitement, expectation and trepidation. Do you? Should you? If so, what do you give?
I must confess to a sense of inertia as I feel it’s expected just because it is St Valentines Day.
I’m going to step back in time to draw inspiration for your ‘Make Life Special’ Challenge to complete during February 2025.
I’m not sure how old I was, perhaps three, I do remember it as being late; there was a loud knock at the door. I must have been curious and followed my mother. Through the fluted door glass a tall outline was haloed by light from the street lamp. As young as I was I felt a sense of concern, why would she open the door at what seemed such a late hour?
The man standing outside looked tired, he eyed me expectantly as I stood there. Confused and slightly worried I turned to my mother to understand what was happening. She had a quizzical somehow anxious look on her face as she said ‘Don’t you recognise him? It’s ok, it’s your father come home from the sea’.
I think that was the moment I began to learn that, as wonderful as getting presents for your birthday is, as special as Christmas may feel, and around the world almost culture has a tradition that involves gift giving, as lovely as meeting those expectations is, there is nothing quite so amazingly wonderful as a gift given when you least expect it.
Written much later, in 1982, on a placemat in Sausalito, California the phrase “Practice random kindness and senseless acts of beauty” is credited to Anne Herbert.
Most of us will have heard of ‘Random Acts of Kindness’ and, knowingly or unknowingly, will have shared at least one.
What is a ‘Random Act of Kindness’?
‘A random act of kindness is an unprompted, voluntary action intended to benefit or brighten someone’s day. It can be as simple as holding the door open for someone, paying for a stranger’s coffee, or offering a compliment. These actions are typically done without expecting anything in return and can help spread positivity and improve the well-being of others. The key aspect of a random act of kindness is that it is spontaneous and not motivated by any personal gain.’
The 17th of February marks ‘Random Acts of Kindness Day’.
I challenge you to be aware of ‘Random Acts of Kindness’. Think about what you do amongst your family, friends and work colleagues. Take note when you share one and consider the impact. When someone shares one with you, let them know how it makes you feel.
You may want to embrace this concept and do something for a complete stranger. Don’t feel you need to wait till the 17th nor save it only for that day. I wonder how much kindness we can share through the month and how many people we can ‘Make Life Special’ for in so doing.
Here’s some inspiration to get you thinking and please let me know what you chose as your ‘Random act of kindness’.
Pay for Someone’s Coffee or Meal
When you’re in a café or drive-through, offer to pay for the person behind you. It’s a small gesture that can brighten their day.
Leave a Generous Tip
Surprise a waiter, barista, or delivery driver by leaving an unusually generous tip with a kind note.
Write a Handwritten Note
Send a letter or card to someone to express your gratitude or admiration for them. Personal touches mean a lot.
Donate to a Food Bank or Shelter
Drop off non-perishable food, warm clothing, or toiletries to a local charity or shelter.
Compliment a Stranger
A simple “I love your outfit!” or “You have a great smile!” can make someone feel special.
Pay for a Stranger’s Parking
Leave coins or pay for someone’s parking meter before it expires to save them from getting a ticket.
Donate Blood
This life-saving act costs you nothing but time and has a direct impact on people in need.
Hide Uplifting Notes in Public Places
Write positive and encouraging messages and leave them in books, clothing pockets, or placed on public benches for others to discover.
Leave a Treat or Note for Delivery Workers
Set out a basket with snacks, water, or a note thanking them for their hard work, especially during busy times.
Surprise a Neighbor with Baked Goods or Flowers
A homemade treat or a bouquet can brighten a neighbor’s day and strengthen community ties.
The best gift is one that rewards the giver as much as the receiver so have a wonderful February and ‘Make Life Special’!
Random Acts of Kindness Foundation
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