The Infinite Smile Project is an amazing program that aims to bring a bit of joy and happiness into the world through acts of kindness. So when they contacted me a few weeks ago about joining their initiative as a Kindness Crusader, I knew I had to say yes. After all, who doesn’t like spreading a little cheer around?
To be honest, my reasons for jumping on the kindness bandwagon go a bit deeper than merely trying to spread the smiles around. Much like everybody else, my family has faced many difficult times of adversity and illness. I’ve lost many relatives to cancer and other diseases. But it has been during those harsh times that I have also witnessed the outpouring of generosity and kindness from family members, acquaintances and strangers.
When my father faced his battle with cancer it was his community that rallied around him. They even organized a fundraiser to help with his medical and travel expenses. Battling cancer is not cheap. My family has been so lucky to be on the receiving end of such kindness.
It is my hope to fill my heart and life with as much generosity and love that has been shown to my family. And it is my belief that even the smallest act of kindness can have enormous effects.
My Kindness Crusade
After enlisting as a Kindness Crusader, I quickly decided that I wanted to share my Kindness Wands with the homeless here in San Antonio. So my act of kindness was to create care packages for them that included basic essentials such as toothpaste, a toothbrush, deodorant, and 2 in 1 shampoo/conditioner. I also added snacks, wet wipes and a mini first aid kit. And of course a cold bottle of water is a must in this Texas heat!
I know it’s not much, but it’s nice to be able to help even a little. And it’s even nicer to just sit and talk to some of the people. It’s amazing what stories people will share with you if you are just willing to listen. In fact, I enjoyed handing out these packages so much that I have decided to continue doing so throughout the year. During the winter, I’ll add some cozy socks for warmth. Again, I know it’s not much, but it’s something.
This whole experience served as a reminder of how lucky I truly am. I might not be rolling in the money, but I do have a roof over my head, food to eat and clean water to drink. Many people aren’t lucky enough to have those things, while those of us that do often take it for granted, which is why it’s so easy for us to overlook the homeless or ignore the issues in undeveloped countries. But if we all just took a little bit of time to help those less fortunate than us or those who are going through a difficult time, we could actually make a difference in the world one act of kindness at a time. It could also teach us to appreciate everything we have in our lives. And, more importantly, to appreciate each other.
