On random acts of kindness…

if you are unemployed and need an outfit clean for an interview we will clean it for free.

This photo (well, a similar one) came across my Facebook feed today. And it made my day. I felt the need to shed a few tears, and I am glad I did. For the most part, today has been uneventful except for the part when I realized how much some people take me for granted (through observing some people’s behavior, both online and offline).

I was ready to wallow in self-pity and anger, and I chose to not do so. I chose to focus on what makes this world better. I chose to remember how *I* make this world better. For all the online (and offline) attacks I receive (which, surprising as this may sound to you, are A LOT), I do a hell of a lot of good in this world. I think that’s also part of why I get attacked and backstabbed so frequently (you may not see it as much of this happens behind the scenes).

So much of my work (both academic and in social media) has been focused on helping non-profits, on showcasing the arts, on promoting charitable causes, on being the champion of the underdog. And then I realize that yes, I’ve done a lot of great work, but there are other people out there who feel compelled to do good work, and to do random acts of kindness. God knows I’ve been on the receiving end of some of these random acts of kindness on occasion.

The photo above reminded me of how society rises above the petty fights and ridiculousness when there are serious problems that have negative effects at a systemic scale. It says “if you are unemployed and need an outfit clean for an interview we will clean it for free“. You may have seen the original post around 2009. Let me just repost it for your consideration, as it’s important to remember that there are people who have it MUCH worse than we do.

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October 24th, 2011 in food for thought

Comments (8)

KarinOctober 24th, 2011 at 5:26 pm

Sorry to hear you are experiencing a lot of attacks. As someone who has worked in the ‘people’ field for a long time I know this comes with the territory when you put yourself out there. But you know your intentions and integrity are positive and fully intact and that is what counts, always.
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AngelaOctober 24th, 2011 at 5:56 pm

The world needs more truly random acts of kindness. sometimes people just get down on their luck, dreams, hopes and fears, and they need a friend to help; – even the ones they haven’t met yet. I hope you have a better day and realize those attacks, are cheap, as many words are cheap when directed in an unfulfilling forum. Often hatred and ill-will is a reflection of someone else’s insecurities and fears. xo
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DezraOctober 24th, 2011 at 7:30 pm

I don’t know you personally but I love reading your blog and I think that you’re a pretty great person.

CarolOctober 25th, 2011 at 10:36 am

Wow, yes I am surprised to hear that people would attack you. I always enjoy your blog and it definitely comes through that you are indeed a good and kind person. Those that would stoop so low to attack you are definitely very small and no doubt jealous of your hard work and the love you create around you.