Valentine's Day might be for sweethearts, but there's nothing that says kindness has to be limited only to couples. This Valentine's Day, why not break out of the traditional stereotype and do random acts of kindness for others? It doesn't have to be just you, either. Get your whole family, school, or office involved.
Kindness is best and most genuine when it's least expected. Surprise someone in your life or a complete stranger with these fun random acts of kindness.
Give valentine cards anonymously. Everyone loves being loved. Bring cheer to someone's day by mailing or secretly handing out valentine cards, but keep it to yourself whom it's from.
Donate time to a local charity. Those who hurt the most need the most encouragement. Use Valentine's Day to volunteer for a local community charity, nursing home, soup kitchen, or homeless center. (Also consider donating money or unused items.)
Send flowers to a stranger. If you have someone in your office, group, or organization that needs a boost up but you don't know personally, why not send them flowers to brighten his or her day?
Buy (or bake) for someone else. Are you planning to go out to eat at a restaurant or shopping for groceries for a nice Valentine's dinner? Buy someone else's meal or pay for the person after you in line at the store. If you know someone in need, cook a dinner or bake a treat and hand-deliver it.
Hug (or call) a family member. Hug a relative you know has been struggling lately or is lonely. Are you not geographically close? Call them and tell them you are thinking about them. Offer to help or just be a listening ear.
Show extra consideration. Give up your spot in line. Offer your seat to someone else. Explain something twice graciously. Forgive accidents. Compliment a friend or loved one. Help an injured or elderly person.
Take out an appreciated person. Treat someone you really appreciate on a daily basis to a nice dinner out on the town. Tell him how helpful he is to you and how much he matters.
Babysit for a busy couple. Help give quiet time to a married couple you know by offering to babysit on Valentine's Day. They'll likely seize the opportunity and be very grateful!
Offer your car for transportation. Take someone you know who has trouble getting out or doesn't have a car wherever he needs to go. You could buy a valentine treat on the way home!
Thank a teacher. Do you have a student in an online school? Don't get to see teachers face to face? Send a friendly email or letter of appreciation to them. Better yet, give them a call to say thank you.
Of course, the list of acts of kindness is endless. You are only limited by your imagination when showing love and care to others around you. True kindness comes from the heart. Think of ways you can help others, and put the needs of others first this Valentine's Day. As the saying goes, "It's better to give than to receive," so try it out this week.
What's the kindest thing someone else has done for you? Share your story.