Recent Events: Phil Robertson

When I originally started my blog, I wanted to focus on the positive things that people do, and the acts of kindness.  However, as a human I feel that I absolutely cannot go a day longer without addressing the recent comments made by the Duck Dynasty patriarch Phil Robertson.  His words are being defended in the most deplorable, reprehensible, and truly disgusting ways - it does NOT restore my faith in humanity.  In fact, it questions where we are as a society, where people are defending a person's right to persecute and discriminate another human being for something out of their control.

1 in every 3 gay or bisexual teens commits suicide.  That's 33% - which is a lot!  These smart, caring, and loving kids would have and should have been our future.  They could have gone on to be senators, inventors, scientists, engineers, the president, or even the doctor that cures cancer.  But they won't.  Their lives were ended too soon because of intolerance, hatred, bullying, and evil.  I won't make this about religion, because in my opinion this is not a religious debate.  It's a HUMANITARIAN issue.

Before you post a status, tweet a post, or instagram a picture to show support to Phil Robertson, think about the message you are sending the kids who will inherit our society.  Think about the message you want to send them.  Instead of condemning them to hell reach out and give them a hug.  Instead of judging them as immoral, reach out a kind word.  Instead of making them feel worse and more rejected than they already do, tell them they are LOVED.  Instead of making this a religious issue, make it a humanitarian one.  No one would ever want to think about their child being bullied or ostracized, or made to feel like less of a person, so why is it okay to do so when your target is an adult?  It isn't.

I have heard and read a lot of people saying that Mr. Robertson's freedom of speech has been violated, and it makes me cringe.  Freedom of speech allows us to say what we want without government intervention or punishment.  Freedom of speech does NOT allow us to say whatever we want without repercussions and consequences.  Freedom of speech does NOT mean you can discriminate and oppress a group of people.  Freedom of speech does NOT mean you can use prejudicial slurs without some backlash from those standing up for the rights of others.

I have never understood discrimination of any kind.  I have never understand bullying of any kind.  I have never understood treating someone with such blatant hatred and disregard that could cause them to want to take their own life.  I have always tried to help whoever I could, whenever I could.  I don't want an award, recognition, or even a thank you.  I do it to help those in need.  I do it because it makes me feel good.  I do it because I've been the victim of bullying.  I've understood what it feels like to think that maybe the world would be better off without me - and I want to help other humans avoid feeling that way.

So please - whether you're religious or not, whether you're an LGBTQ ally or not, whether you have a gay friend or not......please really THINK about what you say before you say it.  Think about who it will affect.  People say words don't any power unless you allow them to have it.  I disagree with this.  I've been moved to tears by books, articles, poems, and songs.  Words are extremely powerful!  Please don't let your words become a noose, a gun, a bottle of pills, or a knife.  Reach out and spread warmth, love, and kindness.

The Pink Tutu Project

This is absolutely fantastic.  Spreading the warmth can even be an act of kindness for a family member.  The Pink Tutu Project tries to spread awareness about cancer.  Please take a look at their site (link below).


http://www.thetutuproject.com/

REBLOG from the Kindness Blog: 40 ways to be kind

1. Smiles are irresistible. Don’t hesitate to smile warmly at friends, family, colleagues and even…strangers.
2. Write hand-written thank-you notes. The notes don’t need to be an essay and people love to receive them. It’s the personal touch.
3. If you use public transport, it’s busy and there are no free seats, be the first to stand-up and let a weary traveller, pregnant woman or elderly person take rest.
4. Pay it forward – When you are in a coffee shop or café , maybe you could buy a coffee or cake in advance for the next customer that comes in. How tasty! Imagine what a sweet surprise that person will get when they discover that a kind stranger has paid it forward for them.
5. When you see a homeless person, think about how you might be able to help them in some way. Buy a nutritious lunch. Ask them if there is anything that they need. Give them a warm coat. Share a conversation. Spend some time. Listen. Engage.
6. That thing you’re going to sell. Why not give it away for free?
7. Send flowers unexpectedly. No reason needed. Just because.
8. Hold doors open. Even for people who are a little further away from the door than usual.
9. Make your colleagues/classmates a hot-drink. Expect nothing in return. Well…maybe some doughnuts.
10. Speaking of doughnuts…why not buy a bag  full and share them out in all directions.
11. Pay compliments.
12. Does someone owe you money? Forgive the debt.
13. When a person is talking to you _really_ listen to them.
14. Pass books on, especially the good ones or leave them in public places for others to find.
15. Ask elderly neighbours if they need anything doing.
16. Tell your loved ones that you love them. Regularly.
17. When you are served in a shop, bar, restaurant etc, make eye contact and sincerely thank the employee for their help.
18. Put coins in a meter, any meter, that’s about to expire.
19. If you know that someone is particularly busy, offer to take their dog for a walk.
20. When a thought of generosity arises within you, act on it. Don’t hold back. This is important.
21. If someone is struggling with money problems, find a way to secretly help them if you can. If not secretly, out in front.
22. Take a friend to dinner.
23. Stand up for others.
24. Stop complaining.
25. Standing in a queue? Let someone go before you.
26. Tell someone that they look nice.
27. Volunteer some time to help a charity or perhaps a homeless shelter.
28. Stop speaking ill of others. Let your words be kind.
29. Forgive a driver for their error on the road or their road rage directed at you.
30. Recycle.
31. Think of the people in your life…what help do they need with chores or tasks? Don’t wait to be asked.
32. Be the calm voice in a stressful situation.
33. Donate to your favourite charity.
34. Spend some time with a senior citizen living on their own.
35. Teach a child something you wish you knew at that age.
36. If a friend or family member is having a hard time, make sure they know that you are there for them and are available to talk and help.
37. Give Blood.
38. Donate to or volunteer for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
39. Encourage someone to pursue their dream.
40. “Please” and “Thank You”

Don't forget to reach out and spread the warmth with any of these simple #actsofkindness!  

Paul Walker

I am normally not the type of person to keep up with celebrities off screen, but Paul Walker was a different caliber of actor.  He is one of the few actors who used his fame and financial success to help others.  His death has affected many people for a lot of reasons.  If you've seen the news or read articles, you know that he was killed while attending a charity event for the victims of the typhoon in the Philippines.  This was not his first charity event, nor was it his first act of kindness.  

I read an article yesterday that brought tears to my eyes.  Paul was in a jewelry store shopping, and a couple came in browsing engagement rings.  The man was a member of the armed forces, and he had just came home from a deployment: his soon-to-be fiance found the perfect ring in the perfect setting; but once they saw the price, it was not perfect or to be.  The $10,000 engagement ring was just outside of the soldier's budget and he told his girlfriend that they would need to keep looking.  Paul overheard the exchange and told the jeweler to put the engagement ring on his tab, and to keep him anonymous.  He didn't want the attention, or any recognition for his good deed - he just wanted to help someone for no reason other than it was a nice thing to do.  

To Paul's family I would like to send my condolences for your loss, and say that your son, brother, father, and friend, will be truly missed.  To my followers, please remember how easy it is to be kind (and free too!).  In memory of Paul Walker, let's all go spread kindness and remember to reach out and spread the warmth.

Article: http://www.news.com.au/entertainment/celebrity-life/paul-walkers-cause-of-death-traumatic-injury-and-burns-la-coroners-office-says/story-fn907478-1226775560682

The Kindness Blog

The kindness blog is a wonderful site that spotlights random acts of kindness.  If you are looking for a simple idea of how to be kind, please take a look at thekindnessblog.com 

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, so give thanks for what you have and loved ones. It's also a great day to do something nice for someone in need.  If you live in an area with a large homeless population, bring a few blankets and coats you don't use anymore (in good condition) and give them to a homeless person.  You can also bring some hot soup and a bottle of water.  Reach out and spread the warmth!

#KindnessExchange

Everyone knows the holidays are coming up, so take a second of your day to brighten someone else's!  Buy a homeless person a soup and a bottle of water, donate clothes, or just reach out and talk to someone who looks down.  Being kind is so easy to do!

You can follow Random Acts of Warmth on Twitter @RandActsOWarmth.  Follow us and learn what people are the world are doing to brighten the holidays for others!  You can also follow +Kindnessblog Smith to look at how they're spreading the joy!  

Happy holidays and don't forget to reach out and spread the warmth today and every day.

Local Spotlight: Glenna Orr

Volunteerism is very important and is an easy way to make a difference.  It's free - all it costs is time.  Glenna Orr is a wonderful woman I met when I was in middle school.  She taught at Carl Sandburg, but she was so much more than a teacher.   Every week she took a group of students to The Fairfax to volunteer: The Fairfax was a retirement community for elderly individuals of a variety of needs.  I was one of the children who went with her to volunteer.  The experience was really fun, but it was also very rewarding.  I am very thankful I met Glenna and got to be part of her volunteer efforts.  Volunteering at the retirement center really opened my heart to volunteering.

Glenna has dedicated her life to volunteering and encouraging others to do so.  She has written several children's books and partners with several organizations to foster volunteerism in communities.  The teacher in Glenna also adds an aspect to volunteerism that is very important, which is reading.  The children who visit the retirement homes read with the elderly and foster special relationships.

Glenna's organization is called The Kind Kids Organization.  Please check out her website, learn about her volunteerism initiative, and read her books.  Her books are very touching and fabulous reads for young children.  They talk about real issues and leave with you a sense of hope, sympathy, and joy all at the same time.

Glenna will be having a book signing on November 30th at Hooray For Books in Old Town Alexandria from 2-4pm.  It's a chance for you to get your books signed and meet an amazing woman.

http://www.thekindkids.org/

Submitting Stories

I have received several questions regarding what I am willing to post.  I am willing to post any story that restores faith in humanity and highlights selfless acts.  You can submit articles, youtube videos; or even pictures of yourself volunteering, helping the homeless, or taking your kids to a retirement home to volunteer.  I would love to post "follower spotlights" because I am hoping my blog inspires people to volunteer and step outside of the daily routine to help others.  

Here is a list of family friendly volunteer ideas;
1) Visit a retirement home and just spend time with the residents (this is particularly special during the holidays because it brings love and the holiday spirit to people who may not have family)
2) Volunteer at a soup kitchen - this is another fabulous holiday idea; however, lots of times they are at capacity for holiday volunteers, so this is something you can do anytime of the year
3) Take some old coats, clothes, shoes, blankets to a homeless shelter (or you can give them to a homeless person directly).  This is one of the best ways to donate because it is truly non-profit and those in need of your gently used items won't be charged for them.  
4) Grab some gloves and trash bags and take your family on a cleanup mission - find an area that has litter and pick up the trash.  This helps our environment which is imperative for building a brighter future!

Hero: Darnell Barton

I am sure by now everyone has heard of Darnell Barton, or at least seen the viral video that made him famous for his kindness.  Darnell Barton is a bus driver who, while driving and doing his job, noticed a woman standing on the outside of a guard rail on an overpass.  Darnell stepped off of his bus and went to her.  He helped the woman in distress back over the guard rail and sat on the side of the road and embraced her.  I don't know anyone who can watch the video and not cry because of the truly moving gesture Darnell made.  (link to video below)

How many of us notice anything on our way into work, or the grocery store, or even as we're walking?  I know I am incredibly guilty of "zoning" and being somewhat oblivious to my surroundings.  But Darnell wasn't.  Darnell was working, keeping his passengers safe, and he STILL noticed this poor woman who was seconds away from ending her life.  He didn't just continue on about his day either - - - he took the time to reach out and simply ask, "are you okay?".  Mr. Barton's kind nature saved a life with a simple gesture, and just a few kind words.  Darnell is an amazing example of a good and selfless person.  

I challenge everyone to take a really good look at their surroundings and not get immersed in your own problems, and try to brighten someone else's day.  It doesn't take make; a smile and a few kind words is all it takes.  Reach out and spread the warmth!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0GgI90c4O8

My "warm hero" spotlight: Ellen Degeneres

Ellen Degeneres is my "warm hero".  I can't count the number of youtube videos and episodes of her show that have left me in tears.  Ellen does so many amazing things for so many people in need, it is truly an inspiration.  In fact, her motto, "be kind to one another" is what gave me my idea for this blog.

Here are two of my favorite "warm hero" moments of Ellen.  I hope you enjoy!

1) Video of Sarah, a waitress receiving Ellen's kindness in return for buying lunch for furloughed government employees.   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Oaq8UtiBbY 

2)  Ellen gives a mother in need a new car so she can go back to school!  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qe5WuUicTbE


Ellen Degeneres is a fabulous reminder that anyone anywhere can brighten someone else's day.  It does not take money, a new car, or a new house; all it takes is subscribing to the idea of being kind every day.  Don't forget to reach out and spread the warmth!

Claudio Del Valle - Argentine "warm hero" spotlight

This story was brought to my attention by my friend Antonieta.  An Argentine man purchased a house at an auction as the previous owner looked on in horror.  The previous owner, Silvina Corso had lost her house due to some unscrupulous deal with the bank, and was on the streets with her two children.   She had no place to go and tears filled her eyes when Claudio Del Valle walked over and said, "stay calm, I bought the house for you."  Claudio is truly selfless and saved three individuals from being homeless.  

You can see the original story below:


http://www.socialphy.com/posts/news-politics/26170/Purchase-House-and-returns-it.html

*This story is very touching.  However, brightening the lives of people doesn't have to cost you money.  You can volunteer at retirement homes, homeless shelters, soup kitchens, or even animal shelters.  (our four-legged homeless need love and warmth too!)  Don't forget to reach out and spread the warmth!

Introduction to Random Acts of Warmth

I think we all have days where we question, "what is wrong with the world?"  or "where is the humanity"?  In the daily hustle we forget that the smallest, and most simple acts are often huge in impact.  Whether it's buying a homeless person lunch, volunteering your time, or simply giving a  helping hand to someone in need - these are all acts that take very little money, but are priceless acts for those helped.  

This blog is going to be dedicated to highlighting and sharing the little acts of warmth that people show others.  I'm hoping for my followers to get the feeling of, "faith in humanity restored" after reading my blog.  I think it's very easy to get caught up in your own drama and your own day-to-day hubbub: this site is dedicated to looking outside of ourselves and focusing on the good in the world.  It is my goal for it to be an inspirational tool and resource for those who are looking to do some good who are just uninspired with what they can do.  

Video of the day: Make the Homeless Smile Compilation
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKz2DGcUbwE


This video has gone viral and I realize I am not the first to see it or share it, but each time I see it my eyes fill with tears.  These SIMPLE and brief interactions are heart warming.  If each of us vowed to do ONE act of warmth a month (or week) we could change the world!

Happy Friday, welcome to my blog!  Reach out and spread the warmth!