Amidst all of the racism and hatred that has been spreading across the country, especially these last few days after the election results, we all could use some kindness. On my train ride home Friday evening, I sat beside an elderly woman whom I happened to notice had an iPhone with 10% battery. I carry my portable phone charger with me everywhere I go, and although I was hesitant to speak to a stranger who might not have wanted to be bothered, I offered her a random act of kindness. She smiled and spoke out of surprise, as she gladly accepted my portable charger to charge her dying phone. We spoke after and it is always a pleasant surprise to share an interesting conversation with a stranger while on the train. You never know what you can learn from each other.

With this in mind, I thought about how many random acts of kindness I've done lately, from giving homeless people food to complimenting women on their clothes and hair. And perhaps, you, my dear reader, could use a random act of kindness. Whether it makes your day or you make someone else's day, we should never hesitate to offer a random act of kindness.

Here are thirty acts of kindness you can do. Never forget that a small gesture goes a long way.

In no particular order:

1. Say "Good morning" to a person standing next to you on the bus or train.

2. Take a minute to help someone who is lost, even though you're rushing.

3. Offer to pick up groceries for an elderly neighbor, especially in extreme weather.

4. Give a homeless person your doggie bag.

5. Offer to buy a friend coffee.

6. When you're on a crowded train or bus, offer your seat to an elderly, disabled or pregnant person. (Common courtesy.)

7. Leave a generous tip for a pleasant waiter.

8. Help a friend pack for a move.

9. Share your favorite recipe with a friend.

10. Offer to treat your friend.

11. Pass along a great book you've just finished reading.

12. Write a letter to someone who made a difference in your life that you haven’t seen in a while.

13. If you’re standing in line, let someone go ahead of you.

14. Give directions to someone who looks lost on campus.

15. Study with someone after class, or offer to tutor in the subjects you do best in.

16. Remind a friend how much they mean to you.

17. Buy flowers for a friend or loved one.

18. Compliment a stranger.

19. Donate clothes and shoes.

20. Offer someone a piece of gum.

21. Make a playlist for your friends.

22. Praise the work of others.

23. Offer to pet-sit or babysit.

24. Share your umbrella with someone who didn't bring one.

25. Help a friend hunt for a job.

26. Donate books to a local library or bookstore.

27. Return a lost item to the owner.

28. Sit with someone who is eating alone.

29. Compliment a teacher or professor who has impacted your life.

30. Smile at people.

Just a reminder to everyone that a random act of kindness is something that will be remembered and treasured. It can truly make a difference for someone in need of hope, love, and care. It can show people that there's more to us than hatred and we must spread love and hope in difficult times. May you offer a random act of kindness to a friend or stranger today, and pass it forward.