By Robin Volker

"I expect to pass through life but once.  If therefore there be any kindness I can show…let me do it now."  William Penn

This is Random Acts of Kindness week, a time to think about others.  For Christmas, someone gave me a little book of stories of Random Acts of Kindness.  In the introduction of the book, Dawna Markova quotes her grandmother:  "Giving is supposed to be from here," she said, pointing to the center of her chest with a feathery finger.  "When you give from your heart, it's not so you get anything back.  There is no owing or owed.  You just give because you want to give.  When you give like this, it fills you up.  Your heart can never run out.  The more you give from there, the fuller you will be." 

This week, I ask you to join me in celebrating Random Acts of Kindness week by performing at least one act of compassionate giving.   It might look like sending a card or flowers to an elderly person or someone who is ill.   Maybe you take a shut-in for a drive to see the snowy countryside, or you might forgive a debt that someone owes to you.   Maybe you give something away that you no longer need or make a donation of your time or money to the animal shelter.   It could be that you shovel your neighbor's driveway or make a dessert for your church's Sunday fellowship or help someone with a heavy package or with directions if he or she is lost.

We all occasionally do these sorts of things, and this week we do them with more purpose and intention.   I invite you to write to me and share your stories of your acts of random kindness.  Never doubt how your simple acts of kindness can make a positive difference in the world.   So, today, begin your random acts of kindness by appreciating you!

Happy RAK Week!

Rev. Robin