Random acts of kindness are some of the best things in life. I have been told many stories of these acts of kindness; my dad buying a woman her meal in the McDonald's drive thru, people in town getting a meal and gifts for a needy family, and others who would buy random items that others might want but could not get.

I personally usually cannot afford to do these things throughout the year, but I make sure to try and do something around Christmas. Why? Christmas is the time of giving and often the hardest time on families.

There are plenty random acts that you can do during the holiday season. People are more likely to pass the kindness along during this time of year too, so just by doing something, you can do a lot.

Shoveling

That is, if you get much snow. Depending on where you live, there is already a few inches, but other places has none. Offering to shovel your neighbor's steps and walkway makes a huge impact.

Donating

I just donated a little bit of money to an animal shelter while checking out at Petco. Sure it wasn't a lot, but every little bit counts and if everyone drops a few cents at checkout, it will add up fast.

Ornament/Toy Trees

There is one at the Walmart here in Farmington, you take a tag off of the tree, go buy the item and then give it to them at checkout. A lot of the items are toys and shoes for children. Wouldn't you want a child to get something special for Christmas?

Buying Food

One of the easiest and most well known. A lot of people will buy the order behind them in a drive thru. Or they will step ahead and pay and order in line at a fast food restaurant. I've seen a few people do this at Dunkin and McDonald's.

No matter what it is, random acts of kindness really bring back faith in humanity. Try one this year, see how you feel afterwards.