Written by 1,000 Acts of Kindness (3.5 acts per day ~13 months), black belt requirement
When I first reviewed this black belt requirement with Sensei Oliver, I thought to myself, “How will I achieve that? How does one measure an act of kindness?” I believe it really comes down to a few key principles (and practices)–kind thoughts, kind words and kind actions.
I sort of struggle with even talking or sharing this as to me kindness is best and most sincerely expressed when no one else is looking or watching; that is, we act this way because it is the right thing to do in the moment rather than seeking something in return though more often than not, I do have a feeling of contentment that my action was meaningful and positive, even if something as small as opening the door for someone or purchasing some groceries for a person in need.
As all of you are well aware, we had a pretty nasty storm blow through this past weekend. Lots of downed trees, branches. We had a very large branch drop into our yard from our neighbors tree, and some huge branches fell into their yard and against their house. The parents (our neighbors) were out of town, but their three daughters were home and were concerned the downed branch could break a window. I went over, cut and cleared things for them. I also cleared several elderly neighbors front yards and sidewalks of sticks and branches hoping this would help mitigate someone tripping and falling.
It was a bit of work and took some time, but I did feel a small sense of satisfaction knowing I was helping some others without them even asking. And it was the right thing to do!