Random acts of kindness – Day 1

One of the secrets in life is that all that’s really worth doing is what we do for others ~Lewis Carrol

Often times, we see beggars on street corners and freeway exits.  Some have their dogs, and sometimes I can’t help but think it’s to gain more sympathy.  It’s sad that scam artists have made me cynical in these situations.  Nowadays, giving is defined as encouraging.  If that’s the case, today I will “encourage” a beggar with some apples, bottled water and a blanket.  I will also keep a bag of dog treats in my car for those with pets.  Today, I will feed someone hungry.

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To recap how this all started, it was when I decided to look for the “Secret sauce” of happiness.  In my search,  I found my secret sauce and wanted to share my findings and present each one in its own series.  At the end of the day, the reason why there are so many articles, shows, books and theories that don’t necessarily conflict with each other but are different enough to easily confuse a simple mind like mine – is because we all need to find our own sauce.  There is no one way to be or do anything.  Yes the basics may be similar, but everything else you put in the mix is what makes it unique.  The ingredients may also be the same, but the quantity, sequence and outcome makes it your own.

Here are my findings:

1. First, I had to define what makes me happy, thus the first series “The re-discovery of happiness“.
2. In discovering what makes me happy, the first step was to be grateful, thus the second series “The little things“.
3. Realizing how blessed I am, it was time to give back and learn how to be kind without feeling obligated or forced.  By nature, I can be selfish.  I’d rather be naturally compassionate.  So to change that, I challenged myself to practice random acts of kindness and do things to pay it forward in the next thirty days and hope to make it a habit.
4. Live a simple life.
5. Expectations lead to disappointments.  Set them with care.
6. Be productive, the lack of activity leads to loneliness.  But also make time for leisure, it’s okay to reward yourself.
7. Chase your fire.  Find your purpose.  Do what you love, if not as a profession at least as a hobby or every now and then.
8. Do what’s right.  Sometimes it’s harder to do the right thing but you sleep better at night and the rewards are far better than consequences.
9. Everything in moderation.
10. Stop pursuing happiness.

Like I said, these are my ingredients.  Now go start making your own sauce!

Have a great day everyone, hope you’re all doing well.