Small Acts of Kindness

Posted by Lauren DeTullio, OTR/L, CHT 07/27/2020

I was driving into work at 6:30 a.m. and stopped at Starbucks for my morning java to jumpstart the day. While waiting, lost in sleepy thoughts, I moved forward in line until it was my turn to pay and receive the magic. I drove up to the window and the employee gave me my drink and said, "The person in front of you paid for your coffee." I looked around, but the car was gone. I was touched and shocked by this. I was surprised how I felt by the small simple act of kindness from this unknown person.

"Too often we underestimate the power of touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.' - Leo Buscaglia

In these difficult times, an act of kindness can change someone's entire day. Think of the impact we have with our patients, colleagues, friends and family in a moment of time. This quote reminds me of how powerful our time is with one another. The meaningful tools we all posses that cost nothing, an empathetic ear, the power of touch, a gentle smile and a kind word. During these times, we are truly unaware how much this may be needed from another person. Think of your own experience and how that felt to be on the receiving end and pass it forward to someone else.