Fielder’s Choice

A goal of mine in 2018 is simply to do more good.

As I age seemingly faster these days, I realize the importance of helping others, making a difference, giving back.

Our church family started a project a little over a year ago called “Acts of Random Kindness.”

I have been able to participate two of the three times.

Our goal is to brighten someone’s day, to spread some cheer, to create some smiles.

On a recent Saturday, we went to random spots in Holly Springs, met some strangers and saw some familiar faces, too.

At gas stations, we filled up people’s automobiles.

At other locations, we passed out gift cards.

We went into restaurants and bought lunch for folks.

We paid for people’s groceries as they reached the checkout line.

We took pizzas to our firemen, policemen and other emergency responders.

The reactions vary.

For instance, at a gas station, we met a lady who had just had surgery and no doubt was overloaded with expenses. A free tank of gas certainly brightened her day.

At another gas station, we met a nice man from out-of-state who told us he had plenty of money for his tank of gas. But we carried on a good conversation with him, got to know him better and told him it was all about passing on some love and kindness, whether he needed the free gas or not. He accepted with a smile and told us he would definitely pass it on, too.

Another lady told us she had just had to spend a lot of money and our surprising her on this day by filling her vehicle with gas was “a wonderful blessing.”

The stories go on and on – all good ones.

We get a lot of “thank yous,” plenty of hugs and yes, some tears of joys.

Also, prior to Christmas, some members of our church went to Christopher’s Personal Care Home and sang to the residents there.

I arrived a little early and had the pleasure of talking with some of our own church members who now live at Christopher’s. We shared hugs, and they uplifted me and made my holiday season a brighter one.

It was just after lunch. Some residents, of course, were taking naps. We started to sing to three or four residents and then others came out of their rooms to join in.

I noticed some singing along – Christmas carols and spiritual hymns.

It took less than an hour of our Sunday afternoon, but what a joy it was for us.

“Let’s do it again” was a common theme among our church members as we left Christopher’s that afternoon.

And because of these efforts through our church, I’m trying to spread some “Acts of Random Kindness” personally, too. But I have to try a whole lot harder.

As we enter a new year, 2018, here’s hoping that we can all focus on brightening the lives of others.

“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”

– Hebrews 13:16

From the Burleson family to your family, Happy New Year!