Remember how you felt when someone complimented you or did something nice for you? It probably made you believe that goodness is still possible. When there is compassion, feelings akin to happiness suddenly seem possible. The opposite also works, in that by extending ourselves or doing a gracious deed we become the beneficiary of our own kindness. During the holidays, as you perform acts of kindness, know that your efforts will change someone and that’s powerful. Simple Acts of Kindness • Say “please” and “thank you”. • Offer your seat to the elderly, disabled or pregnant. • Say “good morning” to the person beside you. • Put your shopping cart back in place. • Say “I’m sorry” when you are wrong. • Ask someone “How are you doing?” & really listen to them. • In traffic let the other car merge ahead of you. • Forgive someone and never bring it up again. Each of us can show compassion throughout the day. These small acts of kindness may go unnoticed by the world, but in doing them, we generate tenderness, thoughtfulness and love. They help heal our grief and that is its own reward. Compassion can break through the habit of indifference or judgement that keeps us separated from others. Take the time for others and something happens to our world, it becomes larger and we don’t feel so alone.