This semester in bio lab, my tablemate had a family emergency and had to leave for three weeks. I stepped up to cover their lab work, ensuring they didn’t fall behind. I kept detailed notes, completed experiments, and helped them catch up when they returned. They were incredibly grateful, sharing how much it eased their stress during a difficult time. Our lab instructor also praised my effort, reminding me how simple acts of kindness can make a big difference.

In the past few years, I have gotten amazing opportunities to reach out to the community thru my church. Whether it’s building houses or teaching kids at a summer camp, it is so awesome to be a part of something bigger than myself. Helping the community is one of the greatest things I have done and will continue to do.

Growing up with a younger brother who has autism, I didn’t always understand his struggles. I often felt frustrated and as a child, I wished he was like the other kids. Until one day, through tears, he said, “I’m trying, but it’s hard. My brain feels like a storm.” That moment changed everything. I began to see him not as someone who needed to change but as someone who needed understanding and love. He taught me patience and empathy, opening my eyes to the beauty in differences and learning to love and embrace. Now, my arms are open to all, offering warmth, not judgment, to him and those like him.

This afternoon my husband made a chicken and rice recipe that he read about in the New York Times. This comforting meal was certainly one to be shared. He immediately thought about our 93 year old neighbor who lives independently but also lives alone.

Sharing a meal is such an act of kindness and humanity, love and fellowship. It warmed my heart to see these two men connect and both be nourished.

A man in front of me at airport security left his phone in the bin and I ran after him to make sure he got it back. He was so grateful and even offered to pay for my dinner, but I was happy with just having done a good deed and made his day a little easier.

One time I saw an older woman getting off the bus with a walker and carrying a bunch of things. I asked if she needed a hand and she said yes, and I carried her things up the stairs into the building we were both going to and we had a brief conversation. Later that day, I told my friend about what happened, and she said she saw the woman sitting in the building with the biggest smile on her face right after. Kindness makes an impact!