Isabella’s Lesson In Kindness

My intern, Isabella Noe, a senior at Walnut Hills High School in Cincinnati is a very special person. It gives her such satisfaction to reach out and help others. Below is her story, in her own words, of how a simple acts of kindness touched her; and how she thinks about that impact.

Isabella’s Story:

At my job at the Fresh Healthy Café in the Kenwood Towne Centre, in lieu of a tip jar, we have a jar for the homeless. Most people drop in their change, while others dig into their wallets for a few extra dollars.  This may not seem like much, but during the holiday season, the mall is bustling with excitement.  When each person donates a spare quarter or two on average, it adds up.  A few weeks ago our donation jar topped $100.  Each day we collect change so the Fresh family can donate a large sum of money at once, rather than multiple small donations.  While it is certainly not enough to make a huge impact, it feels good to be doing something to help.

Especially around the holidays, I was extremely concerned for the homeless.  As temperatures drop, I think of all the people who do not have a warm meal or place to stay the night, or even a family to celebrate with.  I feel incredibly grateful for how privileged I am, but often find myself wishing I could do more for those who are not as lucky.  I hope someday I can make more of an impact because it is sometimes difficult as a teenager to bring about huge change.  However, I have come to realize that change doesn’t need to be earth shattering- one can make a big difference in small ways, such as delivering for the St. Vincent de Paul food pantries.  My grandfather and I spent a lot of time working together at his local pantry, which I enjoyed very much because it taught me about kindness. The pantry was often at capacity due to a huge influx of donations, which warmed my heart.  It was an incredibly humbling experience.

I often think of the food pantry or other similar organizations when I see people drop their change into the small jar at work.  I remember the ease of picking up and delivering food, and how something so simple for me could make such a huge impact.  Kindness works in many ways, and doesn’t have to be big.  Small acts of kindness can make a huge difference, just as spare change can add up to a warm bed and a hot meal for someone in need.