Inspirational Quotes
Kindness Matters
Written by Good Things Going Around intern, Indian Hill High School student Andrea Francisco
When I give back, it makes me realize how even the smallest acts of kindness can make a difference. Even just a smile or simply telling someone to “Have an awesome day” can cause such a positive effect on the world. One of the best things about giving back, such volunteering as a Vacation Bible School Guide, is that you get to meet so many people that would otherwise be strangers to you. Just having a positive conversation with someone you don’t know very well can uplift both people and turn their days around.
I believe that giving back is truly a chain reaction, like in Rachel’s Challenge, whose representatives came to our school a few years ago. Rachel, who was sadly killed in the Columbine School shootings of 1999, inspired the world with her acts of kindness and belief in the “chain reaction”. Rachel wrote before she died, “I have this theory that if one person can go out of their way to show compassion, then it 
will start a chain reaction of the same. People will never know how far a little kindness can go”. In my life, I sometimes struggle with this concept, conversely thinking that I must do something big in order for it to have any lasting effect. However, Rachel reminds me that this is not true, because even a small act of kindness will make a huge difference, as this act may inspire countless of other acts of kindness.
When I really put my full heart into volunteering and helping others, I realize how easy it is for me to positively influence others and give them confidence. It warms my heart when I see the little kids in my Vacation Bible School group following my lead by having fun dancing during worship time and playing the fun games. They really look up to you as someone to trust and respect — even if I am just an ordinary person. When giving back, I am amazed at how treating others with respect, kindness, and enthusiasm can change their mood and make their day.
A Poem About Life And Gratitude
We Are All A Box Of Crayons
While walking in a toy store
the day before today,
I overheard a Crayon Box
with many things to say.
“I don’t like red!” said Yellow.
And Green said, “Nor do I !
And no one here likes Orange,
but no one knows quite why.”
“We are a box of crayons
that really doesn’t get along,”
said Blue to all the others.
“Something here is wrong!
Well, i bought that box of crayons
and took it home with me
and laid out all the crayons
so the crayons could all see.
They watched me as I colored
with Red and Blue and Green
and Black and White and Orange
and every color in between.
They watched as Green became the grass
and Blue became the sky.
The Yellow sun was shining bright
on White clouds drifting by.
Colors changing as they touched,
becoming something new.
They watched me as I colored.
They watched till I was through.
And when I’d finally finished,
I began to walk away.
And as I did the Crayon box
had something more to say……..
“I do like Red!” said the Yellow.
And Green said, “So do I !”
And Blue you are terrific
so high up in the sky.”
“We are a Box of Crayons
each of us unique,
but when we get together
the picture is complete”
– Author unknown
Remind Yourself Today That You Are Awesome
Be A Positive Influencer
