“Unexpected kindness is the most powerful, least costly, and most underrated agent of human change.” – Bob Kerrey.
Indeed, little acts of kindness can often be spotted like beacons of hope in everyday life, and today, we want to share some stories by three individuals recounting acts of kindness they’ve received.
Next stop: Kindness station!
How often have we strolled to the nearest bus stop, only to find the bus departing just as we arrive? It’s a common scenario we’ve all experienced.
In such a situation, you have two options: sprint after the bus, fingers crossed that the driver stops for you, or patiently wait for the next.
Yet, the former becomes the preferred choice when you’re running late and urgently need to reach your destination.
Eleven-year-old Dylan recently recounted a heartwarming act of kindness he encountered last week, thanks to a kind act by a compassionate bus driver.
Amid a rush, the bus driver halted at the stop as he saw Dylan sprint towards it. This simple yet thoughtful gesture left a lasting impression on him, inspiring a newfound commitment to spreading kindness.
Dylan emphasised how, especially during the evening hours, such acts of kindness can brighten someone’s day, potentially becoming a lifeline for those who depend on that last bus to reach their intended destination or home.
His story serves as a reminder of the often-overlooked kindness of bus drivers in Singapore.
While we may sometimes take it for granted that all bus drivers will wait, Dylan’s experience reminds us to appreciate these unsung heroes, even in seemingly small acts of kindness.
After all, not all heroes wear capes; some drive buses!
A friend in need is a friend indeed
Life can throw us some tough curveballs, and knowing that we’ll encounter stress and challenges at some point underscores the importance of having a reliable and trustworthy friend to navigate these rocky waters alongside us.
Sometimes, all it takes is one true friend, someone you can open up to wholeheartedly without fear of judgment.
Sakthi, 21, was grappling with a tough time but fortunately had a friend who came to his rescue with a simple yet heartwarming gesture.
Despite his low spirits, this national serviceman’s friend extended an invitation for dinner upon discovering that Sakthi wasn’t feeling his best.
While enjoying Mexican food and pouring his heart out to a friend, Sakthi found solace and a much-needed mood boost on a particularly rough day.
He said that sharing a meal and discussing the ups and downs of their days brought him a significant dose of comfort. It’s a testament to the power of friendship in brightening our darkest moments.
“I think receiving acts of kindness is pretty important. Providing them is important.
“It really is like a pay-it-forward kind of thing. When somebody does something kind for you, you are inspired to do something kind for somebody else,” the 21-year-old added.
Sakthi firmly believes that practising kindness towards each other can pave the way for a more compassionate and considerate society in the long run.
Kindness that can change a life
Let’s hear it from Midah, a 47-year-old cat sitter from Java, Indonesia, who has called Singapore home for five years.
Midah found herself dealing with financial difficulties when her mother fell ill, and being miles away from her family only aggravated her distress.
Unable to shoulder the financial burden of her mother’s medical treatment, Midah felt helpless. However, a friend extended a helping hand, lending her the much-needed financial support to alleviate her mother’s suffering.
Overwhelmed with gratitude for her friend’s selfless act, Midah’s heart was filled with thankfulness for the blessings she had received.
This heartfelt experience has ignited a desire within her to pay it forward, inspiring her to continue spreading kindness and goodwill to others.
Greatness is often thought of as remarkable achievements or exceptional skills, but it’s increasingly recognised that the measure of true greatness also includes qualities like kindness, compassion, and integrity.
Share your knowledge, brighten a stranger’s day with a compliment, offer your time to a friend in need, or pen a heartfelt letter to your parents expressing your gratitude.
These gifts, although free, possess the power to impact people in ways that material possessions may not be able to.
By accumulating these small acts of kindness from everyone, we can build a stronger sense of community, make the world a better place for you and me and be greater together.
Cover Image Source: Noreen Shazreen