222 Acts of Compassion

I wasn't going to post until after the fundraiser, but I'm about to burst and can't wait any longer.

Today I came home from work to 2 very large boxes addressed to Handbags for Hope. I know the world is filled with amazing, compassionate people, but it surprises me each time a box arrives. Both boxes were from people I've never met. One came from Virginia, the other from Washington. Talk about covering the country!

Inside the box from Virginia was a thank-you note from a woman named Jennifer. She was thanking me for collecting and distributing the bags. I find that amazing. She's the one who sent the bags and paid the postage.

The next box was from Amy in Washington. Inside the box was a card with her blog listed. Here it is: Acts of Compassion Amy is doing 222 acts of compassion. Why 222? Her daughter was born on 2/22. A military wife, mother, writer...you can read more about her on her blog.

The world is filled with love, compassion, giving, gentleness, kindness and more. Just think if we started a movement. How many acts of compassion would you commit to? It doesn't have to be formal. It doesn't have to cost money. It doesn't even have to take a lot of time. Here's what you could do:
* make a commitment to laugh and play with your kids (instead of nagging)
* find the positive in someone before pointing out a negative
* pay for the person behind you in the drive-thru
* if you've got it, donate money to someone who has found a cause they are passionate about
* find a cause YOU are passionate about
* sponsor a child through Compassion International
* smile at a stranger
* get to know and understand a different culture
* bring your neighbor a meal
* send a note to a friend - for no reason
* become a foster parent for rescue animals
* attend a pizza fundraiser on 7/31 in Hudson, WI and bring tons of cash (just had to)

I could go on for pages with ideas. It doesn't take much to plant the seed. Your act of compassion will spread more than you could ever realize.