Put Good Will Out, Get Good Will Back

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Kindness tends to work its way back to you.

You wanna know what’s kinda sad? That there’s so many different websites out there that keep track of things like cruel people, mean customers, and just general bad vibes. The sites themselves aren’t the sad part (actually, they’re pretty funny sometimes), but rather, the fact that there’s enough bad vibes in the world that sites like that can even exist is kind of existentially depressing. Well, I say to you, the world does not have to be a cruel place, at least not 24/7.

The first thing my parents taught me growing up is that kindness and empathy are always paramount. If you have the option to show kindness to someone else, you should always take it, because the world can always use some more kindness. I’m not telling you to go out there and cure cancer (though if you think you’ve got a shot, by all means, we could use it), just do your best to inject a little good will into everyday life for both yourself and those around you.

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If you’re looking for an easy source of kindness-giving opportunities, try looking online. There are communities in places like Reddit where people offer simple advice, reassurence, and general good vibes to anyone who asks. Just recently, I got a little game called Kind Words, where people submit anonymous requests for advice or vent their frustrations, and anyone who receives them can offer them some kind words in return. Also, it’s got an awesome lo-fi soundtrack, but that’s neither here nor there.

The bottom line is that, if you can help it, you should always endeavor to be kind, empathetic, and patient with those around you, provided they’re not hitting you with genuine malice. Or heck, even if they are. Even if a recipient can’t appreciate it, kindness is its own reward.