This past week, my boyfriend lost someone very close to him. While every loss is difficult to cope with, it seems especially difficult when someone so young passes away. In his case, his 11-year-old cousin unexpectedly died in an accident after baseball practice one night. It's been a week from hell for him and his family, and many prayers are being sent their way -- but they could always use some more. So keep them in your thoughts and prayers throughout the day; they'd all really appreciate it.
May 28th was the funeral service for Gannon Boles, the 11-year-old boy. While I've never personally met him, I have only heard incredible things. The way my boyfriend talks about him is so inspiring; you never would guess that he was almost 10 years younger. Only positive things have been said: his passion for sports, how much he was looked up to, his innocence. In honor of Gannon, on May 28th family and friends wanted #GANNONSRAOK to flourish around the community. While the family is at the service, an incredible way to honor Gannon would be to spread good and kindness around the world. This way, it shows the powerful impact that he can have on the world even after his passing, and is also a wonderful way to honor his life.
Although May 28th has passed, who says that it only has to be one day? There's never any harm in doing random acts of kindness for others, especially in remembrance of this incredible young boy. Therefore, my vow is to try to do a RAOK whenever it comes to my mind or feels right, and have it be in honor of Gannon. I encourage others, whether you know him or not, to do the same. I know the family would appreciate it tremendously -- and a little love and kindness in the world will never have a negative impact.
Here are a couple of ideas; it doesn't have to be anything big or expensive: just thoughtful and caring.
1. Write a letter or send a quick text to someone you care about and thank them for something they've done or just let them know how much they mean to you.
2. Ripple Effect: Holding a door, paying for the Starbucks car behind you.
3. Have a good dinner? Leave a note on the receipt and give an extra tip -- that'll definitely brighten their day or night.
4. Something as simple such as smiling at someone you don't know or saying hi.
5. Use social media: tweet, Facebook, Instagram, something nice about someone for others to see.
6. Cook a meal for your family.
7.Make a kid's day: Buy lemonade from their lemonade stand.
8. Take someone's shift who's desperate.
9. Forgive, listen, emphasize, and encourage those around you.
10. Make a Spotify playlist for someone who needs it: whether it's heartbreak, running, sleepy, or windows down in the summer.
Spread love for all the people in your life. Never take them for granted.
