Celebrating the holidays is a time we can bring people together and forget about our troubles.
Taking some time to visit our loved ones is important.
Have a happy holiday season by taking time for others…
by Sally Matheny
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| A Twist of Faith on Random Acts of Kindness |
Kindness. Its’ one thing universally understood. One act of kindness can turn someone’s day around. Sometimes, just one thoughtful deed has the potential to open up a whole, new life for someone.
There are many articles about random acts of kindness. Cute tags are available on-line to attach to surprise treats. One recent variation of the tag states: “You’ve been RACK’d.” It means someone received a Random Act of Christmas Kindness.
One family recently waited until a neighbor went to work. Then they secretly placed a festive welcome mat at her front door. The children especially liked giving in secret; much like that St. Nicholas fellow did long ago. Not expecting anything in return, not even recognition, keeps the giver humble and focused on the giving.
Doing kind deeds for others is a great idea to help us focus less on ourselves. Children, who are constantly adding to their wish lists this time of year, are prime candidates for this type of family project.
Inspired, my family decided to do some secret giving. However, I wanted to create a different kind of tag to leave behind. I desired a twist of faith—something that told about the ultimate act of kindness—that of Jesus Christ. The result is a card that begins: “You’re B.A.C.K.! (Blessed by an Act of Christian Kindness). The card ends by sharing about God's greatest act of kindness and how it isn't random at all, but intentional.
Perhaps your family would like to bless someone secretly this time of year. I’m providing a free download of the “Blessed by an Act of Christian Kindness” cards. The selection of wording allows year-round use of the card, not just for Christmas.
I purchased an inexpensive, bulk pack of foam angels. After printing out the card, I trimmed it to fit, and glued it on the angel. You may want to leave yours as it is and print it on card stock or decorative copy paper. Children can add drawings or stickers.
Decide who will receive the blessings. How will your family bless them? Some ideas work better with people you know well. While other suggestions work well for use with strangers.
What will your blessing be? If you know the person, consider things they need or enjoy.
Is it a new mom? Consider leaving a bag of paper products for fast and easy cleanup.
Is it a single parent? Perhaps baked Christmas cookies and the ingredients for homemade icing would be fun for the parent to do with the kids later.
The college kid? Surprise them with a small, artificial tree with ornaments sitting outside their dorm room or pre-pay for a pizza and have it delivered to them.
The waiter? Double the tip
The cashier or grocery bagger? Warm gloves or give a gift certificate.
Someone who recently had surgery? Craft supplies, movies, music, books
Here are a few more ideas:
Concert or movie tickets Coffee mug with a sampler pack of coffee
A roll of quarters
A devotion book
Gift certificates
Something hand-made
Rake their leaves while they’re at work
Hang a wreath on their front door
Leave flowers or a potted plant, candy or a gift basket
Mail a sheet of Christmas stamps
If you own a business, consider leaving gift certificates under the windshield wipers on various cars in a parking lot. With the Christian Kindness card, you can include a note to bring the card to your business for a free _______. (a cupcake from the bakery, a sandwich from the deli, a car wash, a haircut, etc.)
You can tell the recipient the gift was pre-purchased by someone who wishes to remain anonymous.
My family is excited about secretly blessing others in the weeks ahead. If you decide to do this, I’d love to hear how this project affected the hearts in your family.
