More Good Today Day was founded by Mary Latham in 2019. This date was chosen to honor the memory of the Sandy Hook tragedy. She wanted us to remember that even in the face of darkness, there is always good to be found in the world. The day was to heighten the importance of social connections and community bonds.
I feel that at this time of year the idea of deliberately doing “more good” than usual is a good thing to remember as we are torn between “ho, ho, happy holiday” and “stressed to the max with all the extra holiday expectations”.
Focusing on people around us and what we can do to brighten their day also gives us a boost and puts a positive slant on our lives.
We can choose to participate in a community program or do something entirely on our own.
Our church has an Angel Tree and this is a program I have seen many other places as well. There are many opportunities to help out with programs that are already in place. You can decide just how much you want to give and how you want to help out. All of these will help your community and help you build social connections.
But doing good can be any act of kindness:
· Make a phone call to a friend just letting them know you are thinking of them and that they are important to you
· Send a note or a card or even a cheerful text
· Send or even better bring some flowers to a friend
· Share some of your home baked goodies with a neighbor
· Give a compliment – it doesn't even have to be someone that you know
· Take a neighbor’s trash bin back to where it belongs after trash pickup
· If you are blowing off your walkway, do the same for your neighbor
· Pick up trash on your walk
· Make eye contact and smile
I personally know how much these acts of kindness can change your day. I have recently gone through a rough time, and I have to say that when I have received these acts of kindness it has really uplifted my spirits.
And while December 14 is the spotlighted day, making this a part of your daily life will certainly make the world a happier place for all, you included.
Jonda S. Beattie, Professional Organizer owner of Time Space Organization, and co-owner of Release, Repurpose, Reorganize. She is based in the Metro-Atlanta area. As presenter, award-winning author, as well as a retired special education teacher she uses her listening skills, problem solving skills, knowledge of different learning techniques, ADHD specialty, and paper management skills to help clients tackle the toughest organizational issues. Jonda does hands on organizing and virtual organizing. For more of Jonda’s tips connect with her on Facebook.
This was lovely, and I was unfamiliar with this type of celebration. I'm big on this concept; I try to get out of my own head and focus on chatting with strangers, offering to take their carts back or complimenting random people on their earrings or shoes. So often, people go through the world feeling anonymous, and I like reminding people that they are seen and valued. I'm trying to think what I did Saturday; I was taking my sister to a follow-up appointing for the surgery I drove her to on Friday, and I tried to be helpful and cheerful to the other post-surgical folks in the waiting room. (Man, eye surgery is horrible!) It takes so little for us…
Thank you for this important reminder. "Doing good" can be in the form of grand gestures, but as you suggested, we also can bring light and love in small gestures too. How much does a smile or compliment cost? Nothing. But it can be the only smile or positive thought someone receives that day. Can you imagine if everyone went forth with a generous spirit? What a different world we'd live in.
I also appreciate how you shared what some of these gestures have meant to you during your recent tough time. It's inspiring to know that these acts of kindness matter.
I didn't know about this day. I certainly remember Sandy Hook. I'm not that far away from it. My husband was actually in the hospital that day, and we were watching it all unfold on the television in his room. Such a hard and sad day.
I love the idea of turning the memory into something positive. Doing a bit more good. That is so in line with the true spirit of the season anyway.
And for those who feel overwhelmed by all they have to do already, I love your reminder that something as simple as an "I'm thinking about you" text can really go a long way!