A recent celebration that just passed, that many people may not know about, is Random Acts of Kindness Day! This tradition started in 1995 along with the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation and is celebrated every February 17th, this year falling on the same day as President’s Day. The day is all about encouraging kindness and spreading love and positivity through small, random acts of kindness. Though the celebration is on Monday this year, some people choose to celebrate the day as a week-long event. 

This tradition has been around for over 40 years, with the saying being embraced in an article and later turned into a book with the same name in 1993. With the book being a popular hit and an inspiration among the community, later in February of 1995, the first official Random Acts of Kindness Day took place along with the creation of the nonprofit organization to host and celebrate future events, with their headquarters being located in Denver, Colorado. Their goal is to make kindness the norm, along with connecting people and spreading resources for their great cause.

Junior Sofia Antonio, shares her opinion on this holiday: “I had no idea that Random Acts of Kindness Day was this Monday. If i knew it was that day, maybe I would’ve done something simple but sweet like complimenting a friend! I would say complimenting or surprising friends with a gift is my favorite random act of kindness, since it’s a small thing that can really make their day and I love seeing how happy it makes them.”

Ways to Spread Kindness

One way to brighten up someone’s day is by simply complimenting them. Whether this be a family member, a friend, or a stranger, complimenting someone can go a long way and make their day, maybe even leave an impact for them to think about later on.

Paying it forward is another random act that can help someone out. You can do this when you’re at a coffee shop or drive-thru, which will surprise the next customer, maybe even start a chain of paying it forward.

Volunteering for an organization is a valuable way to spend your time, especially on a day like this! Look into local shelters or events and see if you can lend a helping hand. 

Donating to local charities is another way to help out your community, whether that be donating to a shelter or the local goodwill. Find some old clothes that no longer fit or old items you no longer need that may find a better fit in someone else’s home.

Showing random acts of kindness doesn’t only count for others, but make sure to show yourself some love too! Take breaks when needed, speak kindly to yourself, celebrate your accomplishments, and anything else that makes you happy.

Showing Kindness in School

Though we had the Monday off when the celebration took place, coming back to school gives you many opportunities to spread kindness to others!

Showing kindness to teachers is a way to really uplift their moods. Try saying thank you to one or a staff member to show your appreciation for their hard work.

With other classmates, try helping with school work if they need it and write a positive comment on their project or presentation. Try reaching out to other students and talking to new people, especially if they are alone.

With the holidays having already passed, let this be a way for you to become aware of your actions and how they can affect people. Kindness should be shown every day in every way, and let this day bring awareness to how you treat others and yourself.