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25 Ways to Help a Fellow Human Being Today

“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” - Dalai Lama

Too often the trend in our society is for people to be separated from either other, to be cut off from the great mass of humanity, and in doing so to be dehumanized a little bit more with each step.

Cars have taken us off the streets, where we used to greet each other and stop to chat. Cubicles have taken away a bit of the humanity in working, as have factories and even computers to some extent. Television has planted us firmly in our living rooms, instead of out with other people. Even movie theaters, where many people get together, cut us off from true conversation because we’re staring at a big screen.

And while I’m not railing against any of these inventions (except perhaps the cubicle), what we must guard against is the tendency of that individuality to have us focused on ourselves to the exclusion of our fellow human beings. The tendency towards selfishness rather than giving, on helping ourselves rather than helping our brothers and sisters in humanity.

I’m not saying we’re all like that, but it can happen, if we’re not careful.

So strike back against the selfishness and greed of our modern world, and help out a fellow human being today. Not next month, but today.

Helping a fellow human being, while it can be inconvenient, has a few humble advantages:

It makes you feel better about yourself;
It connects you with another person, at least for a moment, if not for life;
It improves the life of another, at least a little;
It makes the world a better place, one little step at a time;
And if that kindness is passed on, it can multiply, and multipy.

So take just a few minutes today, and do a kindness for another person. It can be something small, or the start of something big. Ask them to pay it forward. Put a smile on someone’s face.

Don’t know where to start? Here’s an extremely incomplete list, just to get you thinking — I’m sure you can come up with thousands more if you think about it.

Smile and be friendly. Sometimes a simple little thing like this can put a smile and warm feeling in someone else’s heart, and make their day a little better. They might then do the same for others.
Call a charity to volunteer. You don’t have to go to a soup kitchen today. Just look up the number, make the call, and make an appointment to volunteer sometime in the next month. It can be whatever charity you like. Volunteering is one of the most amazing things you can do.
Donate something you don’t use. Or a whole box of somethings. Drop them off at a charity — others can put your clutter to good use.
Make a donation. There are lots of ways to donate to charities online, or in your local community. Instead of buying yourself a new gadget or outfit, spend that money in a more positive way.
Redirect gifts. Instead of having people give you birthday or Christmas gifts, ask them to donate gifts or money to a certain charity.
Stop to help. The next time you see someone pulled over with a flat tire, or somehow in need of help, stop and ask how you can help. Sometimes all they need is a push, or the use of your cell phone.
Teach. Take the time to teach someone a skill you know. This could be teaching your grandma to use email, teaching your child to ride a bike, teaching your co-worker a valuable computer skill, teaching your spouse how to clean the darn toilet. OK, that last one doesn’t count.
Comfort someone in grief. Often a hug, a helpful hand, a kind word, a listening ear, will go a long way when someone has lost a loved one or suffered some similar loss or tragedy.
Help them take action. If someone in grief seems to be lost and doesn’t know what to do, help them do something. It could be making funeral arrangements, it could be making a doctor’s appointment, it could be making phone calls. Don’t do it all yourself — let them take action too, because it helps in the healing process.
Buy food for a homeless person. Cash is often a bad idea if it’s going to be used for drugs, but buying a sandwich and chips or something like that is a good gesture. Be respectful and friendly.
Lend your ear. Often someone who is sad, depressed, angry, or frustrated just needs someone who will listen. Venting and talking through an issue is a huge help.
Help someone on the edge. If someone is suicidal, urge them to get help. If they don’t, call a suicide hotline or doctor yourself to get advice.
Help someone get active. A person in your life who wants to get healthy might need a helping hand — offer to go walking or running together, to join a gym together. Once they get started, it can have profound effects.
Do a chore. Something small or big, like cleaning up or washing a car or doing the dishes or cutting a lawn.
Give a massage. Only when appropriate of course. But a massage can go a long way to making someone feel better.
Send a nice email. Just a quick note telling someone how much you appreciate them, or how proud you are of them, or just saying thank you for something they did.
Show appreciation, publicly. Praising someone on a blog, in front of coworkers, in front of family, or in some other public way, is a great way to make them feel better about themselves.
Donate food. Clean out your cupboard of canned goods, or buy a couple bags of groceries, and donate them to a homeless shelter.
Just be there. When someone you know is in need, sometimes it’s just good to be there. Sit with them. Talk. Help out if you can.
Be patient. Sometimes people can have difficulty understanding things, or learning to do something right. Learn to be patient with them.
Tutor a child. This might be difficult to do today, but often parents can’t afford to hire a tutor for their child in need of help. Call a school and volunteer your tutoring services.
Create a care package. Soup, reading material, tea, chocolate … anything you think the person might need or enjoy. Good for someone who is sick or otherwise in need of a pick-me-up.
Lend your voice. Often the powerless, the homeless, the neglected in our world need someone to speak up for them. You don’t have to take on that cause by yourself, but join others in signing a petition, speaking up a a council meeting, writing letters, and otherwise making a need heard.
Offer to babysit. Sometimes parents need a break. If a friend or other loved one in your life doesn’t get that chance very often, call them and offer to babysit sometime. Set up an appointment. It can make a big difference.
Love. Simply finding ways to express your love to others, whether it be your partner, child, other family member, friend, co-worker, or a complete stranger … just express your love. A hug, a kind word, spending time, showing little kindnesses, being friendly … it all matters more than you know.

How far that little candle throws his beams!
So shines a good deed in a weary world.
- William Shakespeare

—

If you liked this article, please share it on del.icio.us or on Digg. I’d appreciate it. :)

25 Ways to Help a Fellow Human Being Today

“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” - Dalai Lama

Too often the trend in our society is for people to be separated from either other, to be cut off from the great mass of humanity, and in doing so to be dehumanized a little bit more with each step.

I’m not saying we’re all like that, but it can happen, if we’re not careful.

So strike back against the selfishness and greed of our modern world, and help out a fellow human being today. Not next month, but today.

Helping a fellow human being, while it can be inconvenient, has a few humble advantages:

It makes you feel better about yourself;
It connects you with another person, at least for a moment, if not for life;
It improves the life of another, at least a little;
It makes the world a better place, one little step at a time;
And if that kindness is passed on, it can multiply, and multipy.

So take just a few minutes today, and do a kindness for another person. It can be something small, or the start of something big. Ask them to pay it forward. Put a smile on someone’s face.

Don’t know where to start? Here’s an extremely incomplete list, just to get you thinking — I’m sure you can come up with thousands more if you think about it.

Smile and be friendly. Sometimes a simple little thing like this can put a smile and warm feeling in someone else’s heart, and make their day a little better. They might then do the same for others.
Call a charity to volunteer. You don’t have to go to a soup kitchen today. Just look up the number, make the call, and make an appointment to volunteer sometime in the next month. It can be whatever charity you like. Volunteering is one of the most amazing things you can do.
Donate something you don’t use. Or a whole box of somethings. Drop them off at a charity — others can put your clutter to good use.
Make a donation. There are lots of ways to donate to charities online, or in your local community. Instead of buying yourself a new gadget or outfit, spend that money in a more positive way.
Redirect gifts. Instead of having people give you birthday or Christmas gifts, ask them to donate gifts or money to a certain charity.
Stop to help. The next time you see someone pulled over with a flat tire, or somehow in need of help, stop and ask how you can help. Sometimes all they need is a push, or the use of your cell phone.
Teach. Take the time to teach someone a skill you know. This could be teaching your grandma to use email, teaching your child to ride a bike, teaching your co-worker a valuable computer skill, teaching your spouse how to clean the darn toilet. OK, that last one doesn’t count.
Comfort someone in grief. Often a hug, a helpful hand, a kind word, a listening ear, will go a long way when someone has lost a loved one or suffered some similar loss or tragedy.
Help them take action. If someone in grief seems to be lost and doesn’t know what to do, help them do something. It could be making funeral arrangements, it could be making a doctor’s appointment, it could be making phone calls. Don’t do it all yourself — let them take action too, because it helps in the healing process.
Buy food for a homeless person. Cash is often a bad idea if it’s going to be used for drugs, but buying a sandwich and chips or something like that is a good gesture. Be respectful and friendly.
Lend your ear. Often someone who is sad, depressed, angry, or frustrated just needs someone who will listen. Venting and talking through an issue is a huge help.
Help someone on the edge. If someone is suicidal, urge them to get help. If they don’t, call a suicide hotline or doctor yourself to get advice.
Help someone get active. A person in your life who wants to get healthy might need a helping hand — offer to go walking or running together, to join a gym together. Once they get started, it can have profound effects.
Do a chore. Something small or big, like cleaning up or washing a car or doing the dishes or cutting a lawn.
Give a massage. Only when appropriate of course. But a massage can go a long way to making someone feel better.
Send a nice email. Just a quick note telling someone how much you appreciate them, or how proud you are of them, or just saying thank you for something they did.
Show appreciation, publicly. Praising someone on a blog, in front of coworkers, in front of family, or in some other public way, is a great way to make them feel better about themselves.
Donate food. Clean out your cupboard of canned goods, or buy a couple bags of groceries, and donate them to a homeless shelter.
Just be there. When someone you know is in need, sometimes it’s just good to be there. Sit with them. Talk. Help out if you can.
Be patient. Sometimes people can have difficulty understanding things, or learning to do something right. Learn to be patient with them.
Tutor a child. This might be difficult to do today, but often parents can’t afford to hire a tutor for their child in need of help. Call a school and volunteer your tutoring services.
Create a care package. Soup, reading material, tea, chocolate … anything you think the person might need or enjoy. Good for someone who is sick or otherwise in need of a pick-me-up.
Lend your voice. Often the powerless, the homeless, the neglected in our world need someone to speak up for them. You don’t have to take on that cause by yourself, but join others in signing a petition, speaking up a a council meeting, writing letters, and otherwise making a need heard.
Offer to babysit. Sometimes parents need a break. If a friend or other loved one in your life doesn’t get that chance very often, call them and offer to babysit sometime. Set up an appointment. It can make a big difference.
Love. Simply finding ways to express your love to others, whether it be your partner, child, other family member, friend, co-worker, or a complete stranger … just express your love. A hug, a kind word, spending time, showing little kindnesses, being friendly … it all matters more than you know.

How far that little candle throws his beams!
So shines a good deed in a weary world.
- William Shakespeare

—

If you liked this article, please share it on del.icio.us or on Digg. I’d appreciate it. :)

Posted on 23 May 2008 in Happiness |
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Comments (101)

JEMi | Tips for Life, Love, You. Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 0:13 am

This is something I focus on daily so I’m thrilled to see this list. People always seem pleasantly surprised when I approach them with a smile and it just feels good to connect with new people for a moment or for a lifetime.

This is a very special list
Thanks :)

Vered - MomGrind Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 0:30 am

Someone once put coins in my parking meter and saved me from a parking ticket. I have no idea who it was. A friend who was with me that day, cynically said that they must have put coins in the wrong meter, but I refuse to believe that.

You walk out of an act like this feeling so good about the world, and life, that you just can’t help but do something nice for someone else.

Kindness is contagious.

GreenTea Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 0:42 am

Great Article. You cannot be truly happy without helping so-called others be happy. Actually, this goes a lot deeper than ‘happy’–more like feeling the joy of being alive.

I think we feel most alive when we recognize the being in others that is the same as the being in us. Compassionate action naturally follows….

The Daily Minder Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 1:05 am

Excellent article. Simple tips but with a good message behind them - try to help out.

The people in China and Burma also need a lot of help at the moment if you have a few dollars spare.

TDM

david Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 1:07 am

One of the biggest ironies in the human condition is that when you help others, you are actually helping yourself. It’s really true. :)

Ask anyone who does any sort of volunteer work. They do it because it honestly *feels good*. It really does!

Ryan McLean Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 1:21 am

Wow this is so great. Finally someone teaching us to not be selfish. There are so many websites out there that teach you how to be selfish.
I am trying to do this on my website also which is a financial blog. I believe in a thing called enlightened wealth which means every business transaction you have, and every way you spend your money it creates a win win situations. Win for you and win for the other person. Not a win/lose situation where you are selfish and win while the other person loses.
So I definately agree with you that we need to be less selfish and need to help other humans out every once and a while.

Lend your ear is a great tip. I have heard it said that love and listening are so much the same thing that you cannot tell the difference. I love listening to help people out. Listening to their problems and successes. Listening to who they are and responding is one of the most important parts of listening. Then you show that you have listened and that you really care, and people just want to know how much someone cares about them.

I also like the tutor a child point. I lead a small group in my church of senior high aged boys (16-17) and I teach them about life and the bible and it helps them so much. I have seen their lives improved so much as a result of what I have done (not that I am trying to bignote myself)….

So thanks for the post leo and I look forward to many more

Scott Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 1:21 am

In today’s “busy me” society, one of the most neglected qualities is the compassion to help others. I guess it’s a natural victim of having an unhealthy self-focus.

Yet, as you helpfully point out, there are immense side-effects to what might be a little, simple act of kindness towards someone else- for both of you.

Of course, it’s important that the helping hand is offered sensitively and tactfully. Often people can reject help because they don’t want to be seen as a “charity case”. No matter how much someone appears to need our help, everyone needs respect as a fellow human being, and to maintain their dignity.

Ultimate compassion is helping others without a second thought as to what we might get out of it. Ironically, that’s when our reward is the greatest.

And the ultimate value is when our help allows someone to be better equipped to help themselves.

A thought-provoking post, Leo.

LivSimpl Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 1:34 am

When I take the time to stop and think about it, it really is amazing what brings us true happiness in life. I don’t mean excitement or thrills or money, but real happiness.

Most often I’ve found it comes from looking outside ourselves by doing simple, seemingly unremarkable things - like the things found on this list.

Thanks for the reminder Leo!

http://www.LivSimpl.com

etavitom Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 1:35 am

Thanks for such a profound and inspirational post! Have a great holiday weekend, Brad

Joel Falconer Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 3:29 am

Some time ago, on one of those days where you sit down and ponder life, the universe and everything, I figured that “being selfless is being selfish” - even if you help a fellow human to get out of the selfish mindset, anything you do to help another person is going to provide a great benefit to you in some form or another.

Subhorup Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 3:36 am

It is such an uplifting experience reading this post. I often puzzle at what I can do for larger goals like world peace or happiness of all, and I satisfy myself by believing that creating my little island of peace and happiness with me and mine at the center is enough. This post helped me see how much more I can do with just a little effort on my part. Thank you so much.

gibsy Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 4:35 am

Posted this link in http://www.surfurls.com

Rob Davis Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 5:20 am

I’m a volunteer myself running a local FM radio show all about volunteering - check out the podcasts at: http://expressfm.com/ExpressFMShows/TheVolunteeringShow/tabid/122/Default.aspx

Thanks! :)

Deyan Dyankov Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 6:24 am

Thank you, Leo!

You are constantly making me a better person! :)

Simple Zack Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 7:24 am

Selfishness is a instantly gratifying pleasure that gives you know fulfillment. Selflessness or altruism is the opposite in which it is totally fulfilling and the enjoyment lasts much longer.

Great article Leo.

banji - LessonInLife Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 7:42 am

Personally tips #17 - Show Appreciation is the best. My brother studied in Japan, and according to him, there it has been a practice that when someone eat at a restaurant, and he like the food, he will go see the chef and genuinely compliment him for the delicious food.

If I were the chef, that alone is worth all the trouble and hard work done.

Now, I am practising that once in a while. Giving praise where praise due is still not a culture here

Alexandros Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 8:29 am

People always admire kindness. But, some people are so “poisoned” by greediness and badness (because of their environment or DNA - I don’t know) that being good to them can be bad for you.

There must be an examination of a person before you show your good side to him. People tend to take advantage of good people. That’s why good people should know one thing: Always have your best defense on! What is the best defense? “Expect nothing from anyone”

When you do a nice action, never expect for it to be returned. Expecting things from people is the best way to screw your mental health up.

Anyway, the article is not bad Leo, but it doesn’t say anything new to us. I would even say that it is way TOO altruistic. Being good to you mother for example would be much more beneficial for your everyday life than donating to a charity. There will always be people that will donate to charities, but there is only you that can make your family happy by just hugging them and expressing your love for them.

Alexandros E.

Marc and Angel Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 8:35 am

The simple intentions behind this blog post are so sincere. Helping someone on a daily basis makes you a hero… that’s the bottom line.

I think msot nurses, doctors, teachers, crossing guards, etc. fit this category by default.

Ryan McLean Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 8:36 am

Leo,
How does you blog do so well and you have so many subscribers and visitors when you post so infrequently (you only post about 2-3 times/week)

Israel Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 8:45 am

Smiling is so major, yet so simple to do. Did you know that if you smiled while talking on the phone that the person on the other line would immediately feel it and the tone of the conversation would change?

Kenneth King | Destiny Building Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 8:59 am

Axleandros,

I agree that this post isn’t about anything new, but in my opinion taking little steps like these does make the world a better place. I personally don’t believe that I should examine a person before I show my good side to them - how they choose to respond to me is their own responsibility. I am only responsible for my actions and my intent. If acting altruistically makes me feel better, so be it, regardless of the response it gets.

BTW, I did check out your post about “Why you shouldn’t want to change other people” and thought it was a good read. Welcome to the Blogosphere!

Rick - Tripping the Muse Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 9:04 am

I have always been very thankful for what I have and for those around me. This list resonated with me. Especially love, patience, and to be there for others. Remember the old Elvis Costello song “What’s So Funny about Peace, Love, and Understanding?”. You could even add a #26 - Create a list of things that will better your life and others if we all put it into practice. This list applies.

Adam Sicinski - Study Matrix Art Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 9:06 am

Here is the way I see it is that we should essentially be living with a purpose to partake in daily random acts of kindness. This post takes me back to the movie from several years back titled, “Pay It Forward”. It’s a simple concept that starts off very small, yet has the potential to expand rapidly as it moves and cycles through an entire community. It is one of my all time favorite movies that I would highly recommend.

Most of us probably tend to think that we cannot change the world through one simple act of random kindness, yet it is actually within these random acts that we become the catalysts towards setting events in motion that could essentially - over time - change the world for the better.

There is an old parable about thousands of starfish suddently washing up on the shore. A little girl races up and down the beach in a frantic attempt to save the starfish from dying. A man approaches the girls and says, “You know you can’t save them all… it’s not really going to make a difference.” The girls looks up at him, smiles, and replies, “It will make a difference to this one” she says as she holds a starfish in her hand and throws it back into the ocean.

The story probably wasn’t 100% accurate, however the idea and the moral is still definitely there. All it takes for us to transform the world is to begin first by transforming ourselves through random acts of kindness that will likewise help transform another person’s life, and possibly in time have a lasting impact on global events.

I feel that being happy within yourself is most defintely a very important aspect of this process. It initially takes an internal and undeniable happiness and a sense of self respect for oneself, before one is able to share that with others through performing random acts of kindness.

Thanks for the great post Leo.

Eugene (Editor, Varsity Blah) Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 9:21 am

“When I do good, I feel good; when I do bad, I feel bad, and that is my religion.”- Abraham Lincoln

Michael Moniz Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 9:25 am

This is a great list!!

I am always looking for ways to make a difference. One thing I do that I never thought was meaningful is give hugs. I am the type of person who will hug anyone, anywhere. I am very open about it too.

I randomly get a lot of feedback from people saying how they appreciate the fact that they can come to me when they feel down and just get a hug.

I think we all need that personal affection and touch sometimes. I am glad something as small as a hug can help and I am glad to do it because I get even more in return.

Corey - Simple Marriage Project Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 9:39 am

There is something magical about human touch. Whether it be a hug, a handshake, an arm around the should, touch can do wonders. We are so isolated as humans that many go to great and often detrimental lengths for touch.

Give a hug, hold a hand, it will go a long way.

Kristen Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 9:41 am

Love it!

Great suggestions to help with the 29-day giving challenge - which EVERYONE should check out.

givingchallenge.ning.com

B Smith @ Wealth and Wisdom Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 9:56 am

My favorite way to make people know I care is to actively listen. This includes passing someone in the hall. It’s amazing how many people say “how are you doing” and keep walking. In fact, people are stunned when you stop and wait for a response. And they love it that you care enough to really ask.

Dustin Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 10:01 am

Just last night I was thinking along these routes. I bought a flower for the wife. Thought about getting a flower or two just to give to a complete stranger.

One of these days, I’ll probably do that. Until then, I’ll just be guilty of most of the list. :)

Imagine how much further we would be, as a civilization, if we all cared about everyone.

Richard Miller Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 10:07 am

#10

One of the highlights of my life was when I listened to a still small voice and instead of simply buying food for a homeless guy, I ate it with him.

I wrote about it and offer the link in the hopes it will be an inspiration to someone.

http://www.xanga.com/InnerJoy/646074895/item.html

Jonathan B. Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 10:33 am

#16 is a good one. I try to take a little bit of time to send an email to someone who has done something great. I just like to let people know that I noticed them. I don’t think I do this as often as I should, but it’s always nice when I do.

Jeff@MySuperChargedLife Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 10:52 am

I believe if you want to get more, you have to give more. This is a great list of ideas on ways we can give. I also like the idea of using microloans to help people. One site that offers this opportunity is http://www.kiva.org.

Lynn Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 11:02 am

thank you for the great article. i have been feeling a little down for the past couple of days, and this really helps put things into perspective.

Mercedes Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 12:10 pm

Let me congratulate you from Madrid in Spain. Your blog is absolutey fantastic !! I read it very oftenly and it helps me very much. You’re doing a lot to improve your readers’life but also a lot to improve the world.

Thanks to help us to build a better world wherever we are !!! You’re great !!

Chris Austria Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 12:32 pm

I always tell my children that if you really want to help people, you should do it whether someone is looking or not. You should do it whether it’s convenient or not.

But helping others is especially powerful when a child is there to witness your act of kindness because when children are raised in an environment of unselfishness they will change the world.

Ryan Goins Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 13:14 pm

This is a very important issue. It is very true that we as humans can become very self centered. This can negativley effect not only you, but your relationships as well. Taking the time to do things as simple as smile can make people enjoy your presence. They will want to be around your vibrant personality and will feel better about themselves when they are. Keep up the good work Leo, you are doing an amazing service to all of your readers!

Fan Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 13:23 pm

Stop and help someone so you can get a tire iron to the back of your head! Actually I love the list and they are all great suggestions. The dangerous ones, I probably won’t follow as personal safety is more important to me than good deeds.

Hughe Palmer Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 14:05 pm

Nice article Leo!

Helping others and being kind is truly a great way to find one’s own happiness while also making the world a better place.

Every morning when I wake up I try to think of a single word i want to use for that day to help guide my behavior and emotions. More often than not, just thinking about that word leads me to act on many of the suggestions in your article.

Phil Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 14:29 pm

If we’re not helping others, just what are we doing here?

But: compassion isn’t an easy thing. It takes discipline; you have to fight a lot of your own gravity, especially when it really matters.

I like the list. Still, what’s really helpful, is disciplining yourself everyday about what it is you’re doing here right now. If you don’t practice compassion when the pressure isn’t there, you won’t be able to when things get tight. And things are getting very tight these days.

Jenny Blake Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 14:37 pm

Give someone a genuine compliment. It will probably make their day :D

Jenny
(www.lifeaftercollege.org/blog/)

Satya and the happiness project Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 14:45 pm

ahhhh yes…life is good, love is good, service is good

it’s all good…

http://thehappinessproject.com/secrets

Leo Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 14:47 pm

Wow, thanks for all the heartfelt responses, my friends! I’m so glad you liked the article … sometimes when you write about something that might sound corny, you worry that you’ll get laughed at. :) I’m glad I have such a great audience.

And thank you, everyone, for sharing your thoughts on this subject — great discussion.

Jade Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 15:02 pm

I love this list. I try to remember that anyone at any given time might be having a bad day and a simple gesture by me or someone else could turn the tide of their day.

I will say this though, sometimes my fear gets the best of me. As a young women in this society, I can’t get over the fear that helping a stranger might be a ploy to trap compassionate women. And in turn, I may not help someone who could genuinely use help out of fear for my own safety. It’s sad.

donna Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 16:02 pm

leo, thought this was great. even if the sentiments aren’t “NEW” i do not feel that it takes anything away from there real value. sometimes we learn the best through repitition! how great to have reminders of how we can all help each other shine to the best we can!! i also liked the candle quote at the end…..reminds me also of another one - “A CANDLE LOSES NOTHING BY LIGHTING ANOTHER!”.

Dr. Nicole Sundene Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 16:06 pm

I love this. I sometimes think that helping helps the helper more than it helps anyone else.

Marelisa/Coaxing Creativity Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 16:44 pm

I would add: help an entrepreneur in a third-world country by investing $25.00 in his/her business through http://www.kiva.com. There is also a really good book called “The Difference a Day Makes: 365 Ways to Change Your World in Just 24 Hours” that teaches you small things you can do every day to make a difference. One of the most basic laws of the universe is that the more you give, the more you receive. I think posts like these are very helpful.

Karl Staib - Your Work Happiness Matters Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 17:10 pm

I need to work on being patient. There are days that the wave of pressure starts to push over me and I feel like I have to think and move faster, but I can’t. Just being where I am and enjoying that. Typing this message into this little box and enjoying the process. Not trying to be so good that everyone clicks on my link. Just being me. No reason to reach a goal. That’s what being patient is to me.

Jay - Ready, Set, Change! Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 17:29 pm

This is why I always offer homeless people massages instead of cash or food. Total compassion hack.

Roger Carr Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 17:36 pm

I love your list. It shows there are many ways to make a positive difference in another person’s life. Most of them are free. Thanks.

Mike OD - IF Life Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 18:16 pm

Great ideas….of course the best charity is the one you are not even aware of (don’t let the left hand know what the right hand is doing). Live your passions…and good things can happen.

Ryan McLean Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 19:31 pm

The best charity is that which you get nothing back for

Television Spy Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 19:39 pm

You can also help your 4 legged friends by donating to charity groups like the ASPCA, who need money and have a solid commitment to helping animals.

Also stay away from donating to cancer charities, not only do they get a lot of money - they generally have huge overheads and administration costs.

Charles Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 20:46 pm

For food donations, it really helps, REALLY, REALLY helps us (charities) if you donate stuff people want, especially for food. You might be surprised, but if you don’t want that can of creamed corn or mushrooms or pickles, a homeless person, even one who’s hungry, won’t want them either. If you give, and please do, give stuff that you like, NO!, stuff that you love. That’s the way to do it right.

Justin Hernandez Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 20:49 pm

Thanks Leo, another great list. I’m gonna email all my friends all tell how much I miss them. Or maybe better yet I should my lazy butt off my couch and go hang with them. Haha.

Johnny Tree Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 20:52 pm

Mike OD, care to expand on that? How do you not know what your left hand is doing? Sounds like you’re talking about wiping your ass. I read your blog and see you have some kind of feces fetish and are encouraging people to spend time looking in the toilet after they take a crap.

Is this what you are eluding too? Please clairify?

Shilpan | successsoul.com Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 21:43 pm

Few months back, I was at a grocery store. At the check-out counter, I heard a couple talking about the difficulties they had paying bills after a major loss. I did not know what they had in their cart. I handed $50 to the cashier and instructed him to use that towards their bill. When I walked out of the store, the inner peace and sense of pride I felt was incredible. I realized first time in my life that we rejoice not in making money but in philanthropy and acts of kindness to make this world a better place to live.

Shilpan

Theresa Says:

May 23rd, 2008, 22:16 pm

Leo,

Please, don’t feel self-conscious about writing about doing good. It can never backfire on you. Soon, Pay it Forward becomes the Domino Effect, and it spreads like wildfire.

I once heard a story about a woman who, without anyone knowing, supported 5 families. When she passed away, those 5 families came forward and asked her family what they could now do for them to help them through their grief. Her family was surprised because no one knew what she had been doing all those years.

What goes around, comes around for the good you do in life too - but, only if you don’t tell anyone the good you’ve done. Be humble.

Leo, I enjoyed this post. Thanks!

Theresa

Robyn Says:

May 24th, 2008, 1:32 am

I read your post this morning. It inspired me to perform a random act of kindness. While at Starbucks I told the cashier I wanted to buy the coffee for the next customer in line. I didn’t even turn around to see who was standing behind me. It was a random act. While I waited for my beverage, the cashier approached me and reported that the man behind me said he was married and rejected my “pick up.” WTF? I’m engaged and not looking. Oh well. I’ll try again tomorrow. LOL!

Alexandros Says:

May 24th, 2008, 4:57 am

@Robyn: Hahahahaha! It’s easy to be misunderstood in a world that is not used to random kindness. :)

Tess Says:

May 24th, 2008, 9:13 am

I often worry about what I write sounding corny, as well, and I think it probably often does. But you know what? It doesn’t matter.
I remember once seeing a young woman on a train, weeping quietly after what had obviously been a difficult phone conversation. A man seated near her got up and walked down the carriage. I didn’t think anything of it until he came back, having obviously gone to the refreshments shop, and handed the woman a bar of chocolate, saying kindly “You look like someone who needs chocolate.” Then he just sat down again like nothing had happened. I tell you, his kindness almost started me crying as well!

Michelle Says:

May 24th, 2008, 11:44 am

One of my favorite quotes… words to live by:

“Too often we underestimate
the power of a 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

Thank you Leo, for another beautiful post.

Ben Says:

May 24th, 2008, 12:18 pm

Patronizing homeless people like that is disgusting. They don’t have much freedom in their life, so give them money, not food, so that at least they can choose what they’ll buy.

c.c.keiser Says:

May 24th, 2008, 12:55 pm

This is winderful!
We would be delighted to offer a link exchange to your web site with ours at: http://donoharm.us

do no harm

chuck

JERRY Says:

May 24th, 2008, 16:44 pm

your sentiments are admirable, but it seems greed and selfishness have an incredible grip on pop culture. in this forum you are preaching to the choir and i have my doubts about the choir. unfortunately greed and selfishness appeal to the base instincts of humankind which through out history seems to win the day.

Laurie Says:

May 24th, 2008, 17:41 pm

As a teacher, there is nothing sweeter than touching the life of a child. I used to teach kindergarten. Last week I was invited to one of my past students graduation because I was her favorite teacher. It touched my heart. All I did was love her. Isn’t that what we all want?

Liara Covert Says:

May 24th, 2008, 22:26 pm

These are some fantastic ideas. Its reassuring to remind people that unlimited options exist to help other human beings and creatures of all kinds. We are only limited by inclination, resourcefulness and imagination.

Rose Garden Says:

May 24th, 2008, 23:29 pm

I’m not at all surprised, but so grateful, Leo, that you are not an advocate of hurting others with sharp words or mean gestures in order to get them to change themselves “for the better.”

Compassion, nurturing and loving kindness rule.

Chang Kim Says:

May 25th, 2008, 3:49 am

Leo,
You’re obviously some kind of a loser who is trying to rationalize away your pain by pretending competition is a malady and the world needs more love. This is all new age crap and when you grow up, you will realize how silly and pointless this drivel really is. Please suicide yourself and take your kids with you. Leave the wife though. Need another ass for the ho house!

Cheers!!

Skitterling Says:

May 25th, 2008, 11:33 am

Leo, would you please delete the nasty post from Chang Kim on the 25th?

I love the fact that you don’t censor those who disagree with you, but this post is just plain hurtful and not at all related to your blog.

Thank you for being a bright spot in a difficult day!

DanGTD Says:

May 25th, 2008, 12:23 pm

26. Help someone that betrayed you, and came to you asking you to help him.

Miss Xynix Says:

May 25th, 2008, 19:38 pm

Thank you for the wonderful list.its truly true :P
and yes, mr leo can u plz delete the comment from chang kim on the 25th may?

bryan Says:

May 25th, 2008, 21:45 pm

thank you, excellent advice for all!

Devesh Says:

May 25th, 2008, 23:33 pm

Hey mate - this is really good :)

I liked your last point - “Love” - so simple yet that’s the last thing on our minds sometimes.

I’ve starting writing a few things of my own too - In hope that somewhere someone who is in need for just that may just stumble upon it and hope that it can make a difference…

I really appreciate this blog and the change you are bringing about to the millions of readers out there.

You can click on my name here which will take you directly to my first post of the series that I’ve begun “Change the world”

Any advice you’d give to a starter who’s following your fraternity for the same higher purpose?

Frugal Dad Says:

May 26th, 2008, 10:02 am

This is a great list, particularly because the majority of the items cost nothing. Many people think the only way they can help others is by giving money, when in fact it is the non-monetary exchanges that are usually more meaningful.

elperroverde Says:

May 26th, 2008, 16:36 pm

Common guys, don’t you get it?

Obviously Mr. King is trying to proof if we’ve really understood the teachings of this blog, specially the ones on Leo’s latest post about Dalai Lama’s talk about compassion:

“People who have hurt others particularly need compassion for two reasons. One, they work against your goal for overarching peace. Secondly, they are probably hurt themselves as they hurt others, so they need more compassion to heal their hurt within.”

So, dear King, we love you, come as you are :-D

Peace!

Chris Truman Says:

May 26th, 2008, 19:07 pm

What a great way to remind us of the little things we can do to help people. While none of these take any immense amount of energy, each one can make huge changes if we implement them into our lives!
Chris

Flat Stomach Says:

May 27th, 2008, 1:49 am

Good Article.
I believe that we humans deeply in us have the desire to be human, to be helpful, to live well together with others. There is a lot of distraction in our world, but in the end this deep desire will move us in the other direction again

Amram Jochabed Says:

May 27th, 2008, 6:13 am

ALL ONE!

All One in the sun! All One for everyone!

True Green, to be seen! Code Green!

All One, Leo!

Teach the truth to your readers! All One, All One!

prashant Says:

May 27th, 2008, 12:26 pm

all thing will b efine

Pocket Full of Love Says:

May 27th, 2008, 12:43 pm

@Vered - MomGrind

“A friend who was with me that day, cynically said that they must have put coins in the wrong meter, but I refuse to believe that.”

Don’t believe them… I do that with any coins in my pocket on the way back from lunch.

Leo Says:

May 27th, 2008, 14:56 pm

Devesh asked:

“Any advice you’d give to a starter who’s following your fraternity for the same higher purpose?”

Just start small (don’t try to conquer the world all at once) and stick with it! Little things make a big difference, and soon it’ll be a part of your lifestyle before you know it. Keep up the great work!

Kaled Asmri-- SuccessElixir.net Says:

May 27th, 2008, 18:06 pm

Hi Leo, a very nice list.

it’s good idea to create a checklist for daily practice.

Kaled.

Mike OD - IF Life Says:

May 27th, 2008, 18:35 pm

@johnny tree (jacko/jojo) - Charity is not done to be seen or so you realize that you are doing it…as that would be a selfish act. True charity is just done because it’s what you feel must be done. As a zen master said…a saint stops being one once he realizes he is one. But alas, I know you are just trying to have fun and didn’t want a serious answer anyways…but I am having compassion for you and hope you find happiness in life…even down in Plano TX.

Jauhari Says:

May 27th, 2008, 23:36 pm

Help each others and make the world better ;)

Tony's Photography blog Says:

May 28th, 2008, 8:49 am

I agree this brings joy when I am in a good mood

Vince Says:

May 28th, 2008, 11:33 am

What is interesting is that this list needed to be published in the first place. Ever since I was a young child my parents instilled in me to treat people how I would like to be treated. AND even if you treat someone ‘right’ they may not appreciate it but you do it anyway…

One of my most interesting tales of late is helping push a car out of a road during a downpour. This poor lady was stuck in her car on a two lane road and all people were doing was honking and flipping her off. I pulled my car to the side, ran up to her window, tapped on it and told her to steer to a nearby parking lot. She told me she had called for help but her husband wouldn’t be around for a bit. I said OK, you got help coming, lets get you out of the road. I pushed her, getting soaked, getting honked at, and even flipped off. After I got her safely out of the way I just took off.

What is neat is when I get these opportunities when my kids are with me. I don’t have to say anything to them, they just watch dad in action. I can only hope they will have the same heart toward others.

Just my $0.02

jdcollins Says:

May 28th, 2008, 15:31 pm

I really enjoyed this post. I had forgotten about it by the time I got home to check the mail, but I got a mailing from AmnestyUSA and got inspired. So I deposited my birthday check from my parents and sent it all to Amnesty International. I know I probably could have spread the love a little farther than just one group, but I just go inspired by Leo’s post.
Keep it up my man! Loving the positivity!

country mouse Says:

May 28th, 2008, 17:45 pm

I am coming up on my 14th anniversary of becoming disabled . For the most part, I’ve been able to do okay on my own but there is a project much bigger than myself that needs doing because it will help all people like me who are disabled and use speech recognition.

We need to bridge the gap between NaturallySpeaking in wine or a virtual machine and Linux applications. It’s a moderately difficult task. It would require some concentrated effort because speech driven user interfaces are different from graphical user interfaces. It is not a task (yet) that can be picked up by someone in a weekend and start making a difference. You really need to be committed for a few months.

So if you have time to volunteer, and want to make a difference in your own backyard, we would appreciate the help.

esj@harvee.org

Ben Says:

May 29th, 2008, 1:52 am

We all need to realize that God made us for a purpose and that is not just to feed ourselves and live in comfort. This blog just reminds us that we have a lot of gifts to give and we can help if we are able to use these gifts.

Pete Says:

May 30th, 2008, 13:35 pm

Great article as always. Very inspiring. I just wrote about the power of kindness in my blog yinvsyang.com.

It is more beneficial than most people realize, and not just for others, but for themselves especially.

Ethan @ Self Improvement Mentor Says:

May 31st, 2008, 14:03 pm

It’s true that when you help others, you feel great inside too. It helping others feels just as good as being helped.

Though sometimes we get caught up in life, and ‘forget’ we are all humans and should be there for one another, I use a simple strategy to get myself to feel more love and compassion towards others. It makes me want to help others more.

I imagine the other person as a child. I try to picture him/her as a child. Then the feeling changes immediately. I’ll feel more for that person and want to help more. Humans naturally feel compassion & love for children, so why not use that to change your state and perception to help make a difference in the world.

Just thought I’d share that. :)

Satai Says:

June 1st, 2008, 9:54 am

An other great option is blood donation. Maybe the most easy way to save somebody’s life.

(and thank you for the list, it is a fair inspiration)

Lucia Says:

June 2nd, 2008, 23:41 pm

I like this article very much! Wish all happy anywhere anytime!

Miss Gisele B Says:

June 3rd, 2008, 2:07 am

In this busy day and age what is most important is people like you who stop,ponder and remind us of our basic duties as citizens of this world.We must be the change we want to see.

Thanks Leo

Miss Gisele B

ramenrentresumes.com Says:

June 4th, 2008, 11:51 am

It is all in the small things, like you said. A smile, or a kind gesture are just as valuable as actual volunteering….

Socks for Happy People Says:

June 4th, 2008, 13:36 pm

Such a great thread and topic!

I have actually designed a sock that includes a simple affirmation (Today I will make someone’s day!) that sits quietly inside users shoes but remains firmly in their mind having started the day by putting on the socks and ending the day taking them off.

They work a treat! Visit http://www.socksforhappypeople.com for more info

one more believer Says:

June 6th, 2008, 14:19 pm

beautiful and insightful article… it is the heart of the matter…

maggiesrose Says:

June 9th, 2008, 22:49 pm

elperroverde Says:
May 26th, 2008, 16:36 pm

Common guys, don’t you get it?

Obviously Mr. King is trying to proof if we’ve really understood the teachings of this blog, specially the ones on Leo’s latest post about Dalai Lama’s talk about compassion:

So, dear King, we love you, come as you are :-D

Peace!

_____________

Thanks for posting this comment, I am better for it…I’ve never really thought of it that way, but it’s so true…thanks again for your words…

Grace Says:

July 15th, 2008, 10:38 am

This was a lovely thing to read in the middle of a busy workday.

Wanda Says:

August 1st, 2008, 17:26 pm

Thanks, Leo, for the inspiring list. I read ALL the comments. So many folks who care is nice to share. It is cool knowing this. I have a neighbor, Dick, who puts my recycle bin back each week for me. I did not know who it was for awhile who was being nice and putting my bin back in its spot in my yard. One day I was running really late and there he was doing “his good deed” to assist me!
I thanked him very much and was grateful to know who the mystery kind person was. He helps neighbors all over our street and neighborhood. He goes unnoticed and never wants anything in return. I thank God for neighbors like him and his wife, Carole. They are “original owners” and in this neighborhood folks buy and sell homes so quickly. It is nice to have them as neighbors and friends.

One thing I like to do is let folks who have less to buy at a store check out go ahead of me. It is fun to see the looks on their face when I say, “Oh, I’m not in a rush, go ahead of me.” I get a laugh and they smile and go ahead of me.

It is nice to Pay IT Forward. Just like that movie, “Pay it forward”. I laughed and cried when I saw it. Since then I try to “pay it forward” in little acts of kindness.

God has blessed me all my life. I have lived on this planet 55+ years and never thought I’d live this long. Glad I am still around to read such nice blogs and emails and kind words to you Leo. Take care! God Bless You on caring.

Sara DowntoEarth Says:

September 26th, 2008, 8:27 am

I posted a link to this on my blog back in May. It is still on of the most visited posts on my site each month!

The power of simplicity is awesome.