Last night I made the spur of the moment decision to go through the Taco Bell drive-thru for supper. As I ordered my food, I really wanted a Baja Blast Freeze, but tried to talk myself out of buying it in order to save a little money (as well as calories). My taste buds won the battle as I ordered a small freeze. When I was told the total, I realized it seemed to be a little cheaper than it should have. I was going to straighten things out with the cashier at the window but he had different plans. He had upgraded my drink order to a large AND told me he was going to take care of its cost. Y'all, tears welled up in my eyes. I have always had a love for Taco Bell and Baja Blast Mtn Dew, but the invention of the freeze brought my love to a whole new level. Now a complete stranger decided to be kind. This simple act of kindness put a smile on my face and tears in my eyes. I seriously cried, y'all. I cried because in a world full of hate through differing opinions and controversy on races and beliefs, a stranger chose to look past the worldly issues. Literally, all of them because guess what!!!!! He was black. I am white. I am almost willing to bet we would not agree on every topic. Yet, he chose to not focus on those worldly actions and spread kindness to a complete stranger. He did not know me much less anything about my life, day, or feelings. Yet, he took a step of courage to do a small act of kindness that made my whole day. In that moment, I knew what wanted to share with others.
Kindness is one character trait that our world seems to lack nowadays. Trust me, I know that sometimes it may truly be difficult to be anything other than unkind but think about this... Jesus was kind to the harassing soldiers who beat, mocked, and spit on Him as He carried His cross through the streets to be crucified. He never discriminated when spreading His love and kindness.
Acts of kindness make up a scale complete with the simplest acts to the most extreme. Although money can sometimes play a factor in these acts, it truly does not cost anything to just be kind. Everyone we encounter is fighting their own battles. We have no idea who others are going through. A simple act of kindness could completely turn someones day, or even life, around.
Let us strive to be kind to those around us. Smile at others--your smile may be the only one they see all day. Tell the girl you pass by everyday that you love her hair. Tell someone you respect their right to their own opinion even if you don't agree. Tell the police officer directing traffic "Thank you!". Hold the door open for others. Tell a teacher they're appreciated. Pay for someone else's order in a drive-thru. Give a meal to a homeless person. Tell someone they're loved. The possibilities are endless.
32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. Ephesians 4:32 (KJV)
