A simple smile can be brought upon one by an act of kindness. A moment of clarity can occur in spite of all the negativity happening in the world. According to Dartmouth College, an act of kindness can improve one’s mood, making that person more likely to also do something nice for someone else. Some believe this cause and effect is very needed in today’s society.

“I think right now, since there’s so much bad going on in the world, it’s extra important to be nice to others because you never know what they’re going through,” sophomore Mackenzie Carley said.

A random act of kindness one can be buying a stranger a gift. This can be as simple and cheap as paying for a stranger’s drink or meal. Driving up to the window at a drive-through and having the worker say the person ahead paid for their meal, can remind someone that the world may not be all that bad, thus possibly causing them to spread that kindness and paying for the car behind them. 

Another act of kindness that takes very little effort, but can still be very appreciated, is safely helping someone in need. Elders may need help either crossing the street or putting groceries in their car, which can be a difficult task done on their own.

“I helped an older gentleman order at Dunkin’ when he needed help,” junior Lianna Corley said. “It made me feel really good to be able to help someone else out.”

Most people go through feelings of anger, stress, grief and sadness just hoping that someone will listen to what’s on their mind. According to Psychology Today, talking to someone about their feelings can be a source of relief. With all the chaos going on and the stresses of life, it is important to be someone’s listening ear.

Due to interaction restrictions, some may be feeling lonely. Calling an old friend can be a way to reconnect and cheer someone up. 

Giving a stranger a compliment is also an easy way to spread kindness. Compliments can make people feel good inside and be a needed reinsurance for. 

“For me, I ride my bike often and even though it’s the law, it always makes me happy when people stop for me when I have to cross the street,” junior Andrew Bowles said. “Plenty of people have helped me, so I like to pay it forward. Sometimes, if I’m coming out of a grocery store and someone needs help loading their car, I’ll help them.”

It is important to try and spread kindness. In order to make a change in the current state of the world, kindness is needed. A kind act doesn’t always need to have an extravagant plan; a simple gesture can also have a huge impact on someone’s day.