Our world could stand to be a kinder place. With the hatred that we see spewed at each other every day, from public figures to our own personal lives, it feels like society is stuck in a very negative place. The good news is that each and every one of us has the power to enact change, for both ourselves and the people around us. Many times, we don't realize how even the smallest act of kindness can impact a person's day and, in some cases, change an entire life.
You might not recognize writer Ed Solomon by name, but you'll definitely be familiar with his work (Laverne and Shirley, Men in Black, Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure). He took to Twitter to share the story of a woman he encountered and the powerful lesson that goes along with it. Her story will truly make you rethink the way you treat people, how you interact with others, and the power of words, both good and bad.
This story really puts things into perspective.
It's always painful when the people closest to us feel the need to break us down. It's even more heartbreaking when it happens with strangers watching.
Kudos to this stranger for stepping up for a vulnerable child.
Most other people would think it isn't their place to get involved, and they'd breathe a sigh of relief when they left the elevator.
Sure enough, though, that stranger's kindness resonated with the child. While she grew up to be a woman with insecurities and struggles, she continued to go back to that moment when she realized it wasn't her fault.
There's the silver lining to what must've been a terrible experience for this woman.
It's a learning moment for the rest of us, however, who can be the reassuring voice another person needs.
The story resonated with many different people.
Others also shared moments of regret when they wished they'd had the strength to intervene. We can hope this story gave them that strength, should they need it again.
The stories of overcoming adversity at the hands of the parents are particularly heartbreaking and inspiring. It goes to show us that no matter who puts you down, you can rise back up.
Parents also chimed in to emphasize how much childhood incidents impact kids as they grow.
It impacts not only their emotional health but also, as this tweet notes, their worldview.
There were even parents who told their stories of how they tried to break the mold and be there for their kids, even when their co-parents were the culprit.
A few kind souls were there to remind us that adults need encouragement just as much as children do. We're all people, after all.
What people shared will restore your faith in humanity.
As the story went viral, many people chimed in with their own stories of random acts of kindness.
Teachers were frequently mentioned as adults who gave hope to many children in less-than-ideal situations. All the more reason for us to appreciate their hard work.
Coaches were another venue of support for kids who felt otherwise unappreciated. Go team!
As this woman points out, the internet gives us more venues for support, more ears to listen, and more chances to be kind. It's up to us to take advantage.
We can be the positivity a person needs, if even for a moment. Just as you never know someone's struggles, you never know what can help.
Now wipe away those tears, get out there, and be a force for good! Make sure to spread positivity everywhere you go. You can brighten someone's day, and hopefully, others will go out of their way to brighten yours.
