In today's busy society, it can be difficult to remember to take time out to be kind, especially when there is so much going on in our own lives. Random acts of kindness - a great idea on social media - soon only seemed to be about the humble brag, with people undertaking actions for 'likes' and missing the point of what real kindness should be.
I don't think kindness has to come in the form of a grand gesture. Of course, it's lovely to be able to buy someone an expensive gift or take them away on a special trip, but even the tiny things - making a loved one a cup of tea, holding the door open for someone, giving a friend a compliment, are all lovely things that we can do on a daily basis for no cost! Undoubtedly, a bunch of flowers or box of chocolates are lovely things, too, but kindness doesn't necessarily have to be shown in the form of monetary value.
I donate a lot of my clothes to local charity shops, as I like to support charity shops by both donating and, of course, shopping in them! I find it useful for my own mental clarity as well, having a big clear out and rehoming things I no longer need to others who will find a better use for them. One such shop I often donate to is Oxfam, and they have eased the lives of countless individuals through the profits of their retail sales. Educating women in Vietnam in social and ethical principles, helping them to be able to stand up for their rights, helping almost 2 million people survive crises in East Africa and assisting with education and schooling across the developing world - all these things are made possible by donations from the kindness of the public.
The numbers are so impressive - £8, the cost of a couple of takeaway coffees, can provide 32 textbooks for children in schools. £24 can provide a family with an allotment so that they can grow their own crops. I spent some time sponsoring a child in Vietnam and my small monthly donation supported his schooling and allowed him to access the materials he needed for his education. This was one of the most fulfilling things I have ever done, and the occasional letters and photographs I'd receive from him and his teacher were just lovely to read.
Should you feel inspired to make a donation to Oxfam, helping them to continue their work, you can make a donation online or, of course, by donating goods to be sold in their charity shops. When such a small token can make such a big difference to someone in need, a small act of kindness is life changing.
XO Amie
This post is in collaboration with Oxfam
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