Being kind to others can actually be one of the most rewarding things in life.
A sweet word or a random act of kindness can make all the difference in the world to someone who is having a rough time. Words and deeds really can have a profound effect on people. So when I saw this amazing story, I was deeply moved.
For the past year, someone has been posting photos and comments about the students at East Valley High School in Spokane Valley, WA. These are not posts involving intimidation or bullying, however. These are posts about love and appreciation.
The anonymous Instagram user @TheBenevolentOne3 has been posting students' yearbook photos and selfies accompanied by some of the kindest words I've seen on social media. This sampling of posts by this warm-hearted student, and the student's surprise identity reveal, are both inspirational and touching.
Please SHARE if you find this incredible act of kindness to be as heartwarming as we do.
h/t: Hello Giggles
At an age when bullying can be a serious problem, this anonymous student decided to give classmates the gift of love with extremely personal, heartfelt messages.
"Ah HA! Another special lady you can find walking the halls of East Valley High School. I'm so amazed by the way you hold yourself high and just aren't afraid to let loose and have some fun. There are times for everything, but you ALWAYS take time to simply be yourself and have fun. I hope that you fully express that next year during your last year and encourage others to embrace who they are because they'll see that because of your wonderful soul how being yourself is awesome!"
Each Instagram post recalled specific interactions, played up a student's amazing qualities, and wished the student well in the future.
"One heck of a ball player you are amigo! Constantly working the court and working the rubber off your shoes! You have an excellent work ethic and be sure to carry that aspect of you [on] and off the court because you'll be surprised of the oh so many things you can accomplish when you do so!! Look out everyone #4 is going to take his senior year by storm! Keep charging!"
The anonymous posts worked their way through the members of the 2014, 2015, and 2016 classes in the lead-up to East Valley High School's graduation.
"What an athlete we have here! You have been a beast in the sports you do since day ONE! You are a fierce competitor and those other teams better watch out next year because you as a senior will be a raging fire of passion and power on each court and field you play upon! Always look for the good in the worst situations because there always is! You have such a beautiful smile I hope you allow yourself to be more happy this year and take in this last year of high school. Don't let petty problems and mindless drama ruin YOUR SENIOR YEAR because you deserve to have fun and have a blast and be carefree, but always remember to work hard in all you do!"
In total, an incredible 658 posts were put up on Instagram sending these heartfelt shoutouts.
"You have a very distinguishable voice and it is always recognizable anywhere my friend! You've done such a good job this whole year about being a hard worker. You may be small, but that doesn't stop you from achieving greatness! You have a grand adventure ahead of you, but be sure to take time to enjoy the small moments in life too."
The final post from the series came with the caption, "It seemed that we were more united than we had been in the past."
"You may be shy and timid at first, but as I got to get to know you over the years I was able to see the beautiful soul you have. You're so astonishing and unbelievable in everything you do. The way you work flawlessly around the school has been such an inspiration, you've woven your storyline into the others at East Valley and now it is time to cut loose and be FREE! Set out into the world, tonight is your big day. Be brave, be loud, and be courageous."
The final post also challenged the next class of East Valley to "find bolder ways to express positivity and encouragement in the East Valley Community."
"You are truly AWESOME! You have a job and you do your best in school, you strive for greatness in everything you do. It is so refreshing and cool to see a young man not get distracted by the crazy things in life and just keep chugging along in order to be one step closer towards your dreams, goals, and ultimate happiness! Success will soon be awaiting in around a years time when you are in our positions going to graduation night! I am beyond excited for the accomplishments onto with you will receive."
While the mystery of who was behind these wonderful posts continued for most of the year, the Instagram hero finally came forward.
"Small, but MIGHTY! You work diligently in each class and on every project you do. You've successfully challenged yourself in high school to go above and beyond the norm. You may as well become the next activities coordinator in LIFE because you seem to have a knack for crafty things. You seem to know what you want and I DARE you to go out and GET IT! You've got the steadfast and integrity of a strong woman, you are the reason why so many feel welcome to east valley because you never fail to give that winning smile at every person."
At graduation, the valedictorian of the class of 2015, Konner Suave, was delivering his speech when he admitted to being the one behind all of the posts.
"You've always had a dry sense of sarcasm and humor about you that perfectly fits your personality. We have had the honor of having you in our class as such a beautiful gal and you never failed to impress anyone with your quick and witty remarks. I'm beyond excited to see the incredible and wondrous plans you plan to execute throughout your life. Strive for those dreams you've had because I believe you can fulfill each one of them :)"
When Konnor made his confession, he received a standing ovation, even bringing his principal close to tears.
"You have a very slow to anger voice, one of the most chill individuals I've met, you let life take you where it takes you while working hard all the while! You have accomplished so many great things in order to be where you are here today. It's such an awesome thing to see someone work so hard and finally have it come together for them. East Valley is proud of you man, they are proud of the constant effort and work that you've put in over the years, enjoy LIFE!"
In his speech, Konnor said, "I am @thebenevolentone3, benevolence being defined as 'characterized or expressing goodwill or kindly feelings.' In the end, I realized that we are ALL the benevolent ones in our way and actions of how we treat others. It has
"One of the most caring individuals I've come to know this past year. He has shown his compassion towards others and also towards his academics. You are not only compassionate but you are highly musically talented. Listening to you play different instruments is like heaven to anyone's ears! Keep playing and bringing the joy of music into everyone's life."
Konnor Suave truly proved to be a hero to the students of East Valley High School, and the lesson he taught his classmates will last a lifetime!
Please SHARE if you find this incredible act of kindness to be as heartwarming as we do.
