December is filled with holidays, many connected to faith or personal beliefs. Christmas songs fill the air as we shop for holiday gifts. The carols, the bells, the rituals encourage us to embrace the season of generosity and kindness.
Let’s first agree that not everyone is celebrating. Many are grieving over that empty chair at this year’s table or coping with poverty, illness, divorce, family strife or other complications. That’s where kindness fits in. The holidays remind us to lighten up a bit, be a little kinder and gentler than usual and this is a good year to practice.
Weve been told if you can do something once you can do it again. Many years ago, I did something once that changed me for good. One summer, driving along a country road, headed toward the stable where I kept my horse, I saw two little girls halfway down their driveway, swinging their arms wildly. What was going on?
I slowed, turned around and headed up their driveway as they signaled me in. There was a table in the garage, the girls were selling “bookmarks” made of oddly shaped wood pieces, ribbon and lots of tape (oh, my heart!). I bought two and gave them $5.00. The girls were in ecstasy! Their mom, silently standing by, mouthed an emphatic “thank you.” This was the tipping point.
One good deed = four happy people! I was reeling with all the feels kindness can bring. That day launched my “everyday kindness” campaign. Call a friend. Compliment a stranger. Be patient with a talky person or dicey customer situation. Send a note. Surprise someone. Each kind act you do makes the world a better place and you a better person.
In December I paint tiny holiday rocks (image on one side, a word on the back), giving them away wherever I go (stores, library, doctor’s office, you name it). People get to choose the rock they want. Faces light up. They thank me. The whole atmosphere changes. My painting and my giving are both therapeutic. Like many others, I need a lift this year. I give, I get back what I need. But it isn’t just holiday rocks. Throughout the year it’s daily smiles, words to strangers, a special thank you, unexpected compliment, word of encouragement or empathy when needed. Every day of every month is the season of kindness.
© 2025. Leslie Charles, Speech Coach, Speaker, Author, Funeral-life Celebrant. leslie@lesliecharles.com