It’s official. April Fool’s Day is canceled. In its place, let’s start an April Be Kind Day movement by sharing acts of kindness on social media using #AprilBeKindDay. Instead of online trickery, bad jokes and hurt feelings, we can put kindness everywhere.
It’s been about two weeks since life slowed in our home. We’ve been intentional about where we go and what we do. Our busyness is focused on helping others. Here are just a few ways:
Take-Out Surprise: One of our neighbors is self-isolated because of age. When I saw his favorite meal was available for take-out through The Mayton Inn, I picked it up and delivered it to the front porch. I rang the doorbell so he would know the meal was there and then walked up the driveway to wave as he opened his door.
Flower Surprise: When Preston Flowers had to close, they offered customers a chance to pick-up bouquets from an outdoor bin. After leaving a donation for this delightful company that supports the community in so many ways, I picked out a big bouquet that I brought home to divide up before delivering to three sweet friends.
Little Free Library: After receiving a donation box of children’s books from Dog-Eared Books, we restocked the Little Free Library in our front yard with great books for kids. For added safety, we put a bottle hand sanitizer by the library. If you live in the Wake County area, Dog-Eared Books offers free delivery. Check out the selection of educational books that can add to your child’s homeschool experience.
Chalk Art: It’s been fun to add messages to sidewalks and trails. The “Keep Moving” piece was part of a Custom Fitness by Marie effort to add fitness inspiration along the White Oak Trail near my home. It’s been fun to take walks and see the messages neighbors are leaving on their driveways.
Neighborhood Bear Hunt: If you look carefully, there are bears popping up in the windows of homes to encourage children to go on a “bear hunt.” The idea for a social-distancing scavenger hunt comes from the book “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt.”
Sheila Ogle, owner of Cary Pink House is running a contest now through April 17 encouraging families to post pictures of their bears. A drawing will be held and the winner gets a copy of “The Pink House” and a much-loved rainbow Care Bear.
Activate Good, Wake County Schools and other groups are sharing ways you can volunteer to make an impact. Many companies are sharing acts of kindness instead of ads. It’s truly a way to brighten the world. What are some things you are doing to help others?
FRS Communications 