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Thoughts on being kind 

 

 

“Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those

little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”

Desmond Tutu

 

 

It’s almost a year since the Arch passed away. This tremendous man, with such a mighty heart left a legacy; be kind.

There are so many problems in the world, globally and locally. And there is need everywhere, in developed and developing countries. So how do we begin to address it all?

World Kindness Day is celebrated on 13th November all over the world. The day promotes kindness around our world and encourages us to stop and think of others, and engage in at least one act of kindness.

Of course acts of kindness should not be limited to this one day.

Being in the Mother City, I’m reminded of so many initiatives that epitomise kindness. There are many projects which are supporting and empowering communities. We try where we can to buy ethically, to consider how your purchase may just make a difference to someone.

Driving over the mountain this morning, I saw this road sign, reminding drivers to slow down, to take care around the endangered Western Leopard toads of the Cape Peninsula. A local group of volunteers give up their time to help the toads across the busy road at sunset.

We’re approaching the festive season. The malls will be full of people shopping for gifts. We won’t be joining them.

Instead we will exchange a few small purchases from thrift stores, supporting local charities. and opt for tickets to a carol concert that raises funds for a township education project. We will gather items to gift to a man who we see every week, a ‘car guard’, who keeps an eye on your car and helps you reverse into a tight spot. We will reach out to people who are alone.

These acts of kindness won’t change the world. But then I’m reminded of Tutu’s words “Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”

How will you be kind where you are today?

 

© Maggie M /Mother City Time

 

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