Random Acts of Kindness

Random Acts of Kindness

by Joyce E. Barrie

Thank-you OPRAH!   "RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS" was something you addressed on one of your inspiring shows, dedicated to making a profound difference in the world.  From that day, that concept has lived inside me and I always look for opportunities where I can help someone, do something, give something to make the world a little bit better for another human being.  I reflect on what a "wonderful world it 'really' would be" if each and every one of us had it on our hearts to do likewise.

Let us STOP and look for a moment at what is making headlines every day.  It's those horrific "acts of violence," from the tragic demise of President Abe Lincoln, to the horrible assassinations of our beloved President, John F. Kennedy, his brother Attorney General, Robert Kennedy, and Civil Rights leader, Martin Luther King.

Then there is the senseless killing of Beatle legend, John Lennon, tragically shot to death.  Can we even begin to understand how another great superstar, Selina, could be shot by the President of her very own fan club?  This amazingly talented singer was killed at the height of her career, at age 24.  Notable and highly respected international clothing designer, Versace, likewise shot to death in yet another senseless killing.  (When does killing ever make sense, anyway!)

So, what is the point!?!  The above mentioned tragedies received worldwide attention because they were all famous people, powerful people in the public spotlight.  What about all the completely senseless killings, and random acts of violence that happen to "regular" folks?  what about the abuse of children?  What about the emotional and physical abuse between husbands and wives?  What about the still ongoing discrimination against blacks, Jews, homosexuals, and other human beings that are too old, too sick, too weak, or too--whatever?  What about all of them?  Why can't they be treated with the kind of respect that any human being deserves?

It really is such a gross injustice to harm people for any reason.  Vicious, greedy people tried to destroy Werner Erhard, an extraordinary man, dedicated to making a profound difference in the world through brilliant transformational technology and powerful charitable endeavors, such as the pursuit to end world hunger.  No matter how hard they tried to destroy the man, they were never able to destroy his message.

Let us STOP once and for all the abuse of all people.  Let us look within our homes, our offices, our communities, our cities, states and governments.  Let us look worldwide, and see the part we can play to make positive changes.

Why can't we respect each other and try to understand our differences?  Why can't the Arabs and Israelis set the supreme example for world peace?  Why can't we end the oppression for the people of Tibet, and free them to live their lives as they choose, without domination or interference by anyone?  Why can't we all join together and have a world that works for everyone?

Why abuse anyone, especially the defenseless?  Why is there still the double standard?  Why is there so much hate?  Why are there gangs whose only purpose is to maim and hurt others?  Why is there still such a widespread use and dependency on drugs?  Why do people still drink and drive?  What about stray bullets killing innocent young children that haven't even begun to live yet?  Why did all this begin?  When will it ever end?

Is this making you depressed?  Hopefully, it is making you STOP and think...I truly hope so--because now you have a choice, actually three choices--(1) you can do nothing; (2) you can choose to do something, but you will procrastinate because you do not get the urgency; or (3) you can go into action NOW!!!

I personally do not expect to save humankind by this plea.  I believe, however that we can and we must make small beginnings.  This brings to mind, the delightful grandmother who loved to put quarters in expired meters to save the car owners from getting fines.  Policemen took this gentle lady in handcuffs to the police station and booked her for obstructing justice!  Given all the crimes taking place everywhere, this is ridiculous!  This was a lovely display of a "Random Act of Kindness" by a lady who simply wanted to help another human being.  What difference whose token goes into a meter!  It's like an unknown driver ahead of you approaching a tunnel who pays for you.  I think it's random acts like those that make life fun, and show people do care...randomly.

Then, there is Ted Turner who just contributed $1 billion to UN charities.  He is putting the message out to very wealthy people who can afford to give significant contributions to help others a lot less fortunate.

Robert Kennedy said "I want this country to stand for compassion, love and peace".  So do I.  So should you.  I ask you--yes, you--to please, please think about what you can do NOW to make the world a better place...even a little better!!!