World Kindness Day is a day that encourages individuals to overlook boundaries, race and religion.

There are a lot of problems in the world today. Mass shootings, bullying, natural disasters, riots, … The world needs more kindness now than ever. World Kindness Day (WKD) became an international observance on November 13, 1998. The mission of the World Kindness Movement (WKM) is to inspire individuals towards greater kindness by connecting nations to create a kinder world. There are 28 nations that are a part of this movement, including the US. Many times, struggles are not visible. Our neighbors may be struggling to cover all their bills. Our co-workers may not be able to put food on the table. Sometimes, we may not know people close to us might even be homeless.

Helping others can restore a sense of humanity and give you a gratifying, heartwarming feeling inside.

Here are some examples to celebrate World Kindness Day:

Donate food, clothing, and/or books to a local food bank or charity organization. Volunteer at a homeless shelter, bake your neighbor some delicious treats, even something as simple as holding the door open for someone. You could even pay for the person behind you in the drive-thru; you will not only feel good about it but that person may pay it forward. How about giving the gift of life and donate blood or plasma! Pay someone a compliment. Next time you are at the store and you see someone returning their cart and you are headed in, offer to take it in for them. If you see someone being picked on, step in and help out in a kind way. It could be your friend, co-worker, family member or even a stranger. If you see someone you can help, do it! Being kind doesn’t have to cost you anything. A little goes a long way and you will have brightened someone else’s day, and usually, it will get paid forward. It starts with one person, YOU.

Happy World Kindness Day!