Journal Writing Project Spreading the wealth

By Katrina Bergey

My mom frequently is reminding me of a simple quote by Abraham Lincoln. “People will forget what you said. People will forget what you did. But people will never forget how you made them feel.” That saying is incredibly true and I try to regularly remind myself of this. I think most people would agree that in the end you remember the things that bring you happiness, not the materialistic things. During this time of year, it is extra important to remember it isn’t the gifts you receive but the love that is shared. Try not to get caught up in taking, but spend more time on giving. Hopefully everyone can spread joy this holiday season for your own good and the good of others. The satisfaction of knowing you helped someone else by simply boosting their mood is huge. I don’t think there is anything better than feeling that you truly made someone’s day brighter. The smallest, most unpredictable thoughtful acts can have some of the longest lasting effects.

Since it is the holiday season, it is the perfect time to pay it forward by doing random acts of kindness! People across the United States have been doing anonymous, generous acts. On the news, you see strangers doing wonderful deeds for others. Recently, there has been a man going around to different stores called the “Layaway Angel.” This man has been going into stores and paying off people’s Christmas bills. It is an incredible gesture which radiates kindness and selflessness. This man brings people so much excitement, relief, and gratitude. There are also people that have been known to pay for a different table’s bill or paying for the person behind them in a drive through. Although, there have been several other instances of kind acts throughout the holiday season and full year, I wouldn’t say that these things are “usual” or “regular” happenings. However, I do wholeheartedly believe they should be.

You can spread positivity in the act of monetary gifts or assistance, but there are several other ways to accomplish this goal too. When you are walking down the street smile at everyone you meet. It costs nothing to flash a quick smile, perhaps that is the only smile they’ll get directed at them all day. If you see someone and admire what they’re wearing, let them know you like it! If people are doing satisfactory work or have recently accomplished something big, give them the recognition they deserve. Hold the door open for the next person coming in. Donate your time to volunteering or giving back to the community. These are just a few of the many things you could do to help others. The act does not have to be elaborate and it doesn’t have to be known, but doing something for others will help to fill you and them with content.

In 10 years, people will not remember the item they were buying, meal they were eating, or room they were walking into. Instead, they will remember the kindness you exerted. I hope that everyone can start to focus less on the receiving and much more on the giving. So I have a challenge for every person that reads this, to go out and do a spontaneous act of kindness this holiday season.

Katrina Bergey is a student at Fillmore Central High School. She is one of eight area students participating in the Journal Writing Project, now in its 20th year.