#RandomAOK {A Kindness Challenge}

Kindness is a verb to me. I try to live my life with kindness at the forefront, I’m not perfect though, there are days kindness blows away with the gust of anger and madness that life can sometimes throw our way. I would love to tell you I have never said an unkind word, but that would be lying and I’m no liar. When ugly words fill my head or come across my lips I become upset with myself because I know better. I know that we are all in a struggle, we should try our hardest to be a little kinder. I also know I’m human and I’m in no way perfect, so I just need to try harder next time. Today, while I was out with my husband we celebrated Veterans’ Day, the kids’ elementary school put together a sweet assembly for our veterans, that assembly was one big act of kindness! And as you imagined- those of you who know me- yes, I cried. If Taps  doesn’t make you get choked up or cry, then I don’t know what will. (Then again, I’m an Army brat and veteran’s wife.)

The assembly set the tone for the day, we (my husband and I) talked about our Army days, we talked about the veterans we knew who we lost, and we talked about life. Life. I’m always thankful for life, but when you’re reminded once more of how life can be taken away it really makes you even more grateful to be alive. When you think about the sacrifice the military and military families give day in and day out :::heavy sigh::: that’s one of the HUGEST acts of kindness. We take from them daily, they’re giving us freedom, and in return they don’t ask for much.  Anyway, ::choking back more tears:: I made it a point to smile at people today, say hello, and open doors. One of our stops was the USPS, I went alone while my husband took a call for work. I carried a big box into the post office and a woman was ahead of me, so surely she would open the door for me, right? WRONG! To me little things like opening doors, smiling, saying hello, and asking someone about their day (and really listening) are all acts of kindness. So, in the spirit of kindness and thanks giving 😉 I came up with a little something.

Yesterday, I posted a challenge on my Instagram, I asked people to write a thank you note each day this week to someone. Here’s the actually post:

In the spirit of ThanksGiving ? I’m challenging YOU to write a thank you note every day this week! Somebody has: helped you, they’ve given you laughter, they may teach your child, bring you your happy mail, or they’re just a freakin’ awesome person that deserves a little note to let them know. Send it!!! ? Also, shameless plug, join me Friday for Thank You Notes, I may have something to help you with those Thank You Notes ? Happy Monday!!

A photo posted by Mrs.AOK (@mrs_aok) on Nov 9, 2015 at 9:02am PST

After I posted this my sweet friend Lowanda of Sunshine and Elephants reminded me that this week was World Kindness Week, which made think I need to do something more! (This Friday is World Kindness  Day btdubs) So, here’s my challenge to you!! Go out into the world and be the good! Do an act of kindness it can be big or small, cheap or free, party of one or three, it really doesn’t matter to me. If you write thank you notes for friends, teachers, postal carriers, or our troops let’s see ’em!  I want you to share your kindness with the world!!! Tag your #RandomAOK on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or your blog and don’t forget to tag me. I’ll be sure to share your kindness on my social media as well. Once you’re done sharing wherever you choose to share come linkup your #RandomAOK below. I will choose one kindhearted soul to win some goodies to spread a little more kindness in the world. 🙂 Are you in!?!?  

 

I’m giving away: Stickers, Stamps, Thank You Notes, Pens, Page Flags, Glitter, annnnnnd $10 Target gift card. (I’ve been known to throw in extras 😉  )

 This challenge is open to everyone, however the giveaway is open to US & Canada (minus the stamps) only, I’m sorry. Please only linkup your RECENT acts of kindness. You may linkup your Instagram, Facebook, or blog post with your #RandomAOK. I cannot wait to see what you share!!! 

 

 

 

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