A Box Full of (Kindness)

Santa knows that kindness and love comes in all shapes and sizes.

She Didn't Know She Was Giving an Important Kindness

“In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”  ~Acts 20:35  

Every year I promise myself I am going to be ready for Kindness Day Because of Heller. I am going to have my posts written before the first day of December, and I am going to have all of my kindness plans and preparations organized in advance.  After all, I try to encourage DELIBERATE acts of kindness as well as RANDOM acts.

Every year, our family celebrates at least 4 birthdays in October (and Halloween) and 3 birthdays in November (and Thanksgiving).  That is just family.  I get overwhelmed and stressed and annoyed at myself for cutting my deadline close—one I made for myself—one I made for Heller.

This year, my Wi-Fi carrier decided to wreak havoc on my goal as well.  This year, when it was time to post on the first day of December, I had no Wi-Fi. I was unable to post at all.

No, the world will not end if my kindness post does not make December 1, but I was excited this year.  This year, Kindness Day Because of Heller has many new supporters joining us on and before December 22.  I was eager to make a good impression.

That is where she came in.  She is a new friend I met only this year.  She is a fellow volunteer at Nicholas’s school.  We recently had breakfast with a small group of friends and she allowed me to share our story of Heller and plans for Kindness Day with her.  As I spoke about Heller, her enthusiasm warmed me.  She had wonderful ideas and an intensity that rekindled my excitement for the day.  She is a take-charge kind of girl--exactly what Kindness Day needs. 

So, there I was on Day One in December with nothing to post.  With my computer down, I clicked on my phone for a glimpse at Facebook and Heller’s name caught my eye.

There was her Facebook post.  It read:

“While I celebrate the birth of my son every year on December 22nd, another mother honors her son's memory. Heller was the age that my (son) will be turning this year, and I pray that we as a family can spread some of the joy and light that Heller brought to others in his short life by honoring his memory and doing a random act of kindness each day leading up to Dec. 22nd. If you can, read the blog, and join us.”

Thank you, friend.  Your kindness has already made a world of difference.

Happy Kindness Day!

Today is Kindness Day!  Surround yourselves with love and kindness ALL DAY LONG!

Spread Kindness Like Peanut Butter!

Some of you will recognize the contents of this post, but for those who are new to Random Acts of Kindness Because of Heller, it is worth sharing once more!  

The Game:

It was a silly game, yet important enough to encourage the purchase of a king-sized mattress to fit our growing family of four (almost five).  Each night, we would lie together on the mattress, telling jokes and stories of our day.

“Bread!” I would yell from my outside position on the mattress, throwing my arm into the air.

“Bread!” My husband would return from his far side.

“Peanut Butter!”  Jenny would cry.

“Jelly!” came Heller’s giggling voice.

Then, we would crush together into the tightest family sandwich possible.

It was a silly game.  And, it was everything. 

Emergency Care Help Organization

According to its website, The Emergency Care Help Organization (ECHO Brandon FL) provides immediate relief in the forms of food, clothing and household items to those residents of the greater Brandon area that have experienced a recent emergency. Since its inception in 1987, ECHO FL  has assisted over 109,000 individuals, over half of whom were children, with the basic life necessities. When families experience an unexpected emergency they are often faced with the decision paying the bills or buying food for their families. 

In addition to gently used clothing, towels, blankets, and household items,

Most needed items include:

• Canned meats
• Jelly
• Peanut Butter
• Spaghetti Sauce
• Canned Fruit
• Canned Pasta
• Rice
• Macaroni and Cheese

Because of Heller

ECHO is an organization that was special to Heller. For this reason, each year we do our best to offer what we can to ECHO to fill some of the organization's needs. We call it our PB&J Drive. Please let us know if you would like to collect and donate goods, but are not able to deliver them.  We will be happy to carry your kindness for you during the week of December 22^nd.
  
Click to Learn More About ECHO and How You Can Help.

For those who do not live in the area, search your local charities and see how you can help!  To someone, you could be everything.

A Note from Heller's Sister - Show Kindness to Your Pets

People have busy schedules. Our lives are filled with work, school, errands, tasks, entertainment, and other people. Our pets’ lives are filled with nothing but us. 

While we are trying to work, eat, watch TV, get ready for the day, and spend time with our loved ones, we have to remember that we are the single loved one of our pet. 

Our dog might annoy us, pulling our attention away from whatever or whomever we deem more important, but this is because we are most important to our dog. We are all they have, but it is easy to forget this amidst our busy schedules.

Our pets are there for us every time we turn to them for playing, snuggles, or companionship. We need to provide for them, graciously, as well. Give your pet a treat, a back rub, and some extra attention when dolling out kindnesses, because it is all they live for. 

Be kind to your pets by spending time with them during your busy day; they are gifts worth giving back to.

Kindness--How to Know if You are Doing it Right

The people around you might look something like this!

Elf Someone!

We've Been Elf-ed!

It was an Elf ding-dong-dash!  When we opened our front door, all we discovered was KINDNESS!

There was but one request.  A portion of the note read:

"An Elf brought this to you, in hopes that you will make it two! To share the joy and season's cheer, with family, friends, and neighbors near."

It looks like the Secret Elf has given us a kindness task.  I think we might just be up for it!

For those of you looking for ideas for Kindness Day Because of Heller, this could be a fun one!  You can find your own Elf-ed poems and Elf-ed signs here, or make up your own Kindness surprise!

A special thank you to our Secret Elf!  Your kindness made us happy.

Sponsor a Child - A Kindness for the Both of You!

Gonzalo Holding Our Emails

“Did you know that you have a brother in Heaven and a brother in Bolvia?” we asked Nicholas one day?  “Yep!” He proudly announced, “Heller and Gonzalo!”

 

Of course you know Heller, but “Who is this Gonzalo?” you ask.  Gonzalo is our Angel in Bolivia who we had the honor of sponsoring through The
World Vision Organization in January of this year. 

According to The World Vision website: 

“World Vision is a Christian relief and development organization dedicated to helping children, families, and communities worldwide reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice.

They help transform the lives of the world’s poorest children and families in nearly 100 countries, including the United States, through interventions such as nutrition and safe drinking water programs, poverty relief and community development initiatives, disaster response, and more. Their non-profit work extends assistance to all people, regardless of religious beliefs, gender, race, or ethnic background.”

What they don’t tell you is that they also change the lives of those who sponsor these children. 

Our Gonzalo is an eleven year old boy with big brown eyes and a beautiful smile.  He loves math and playing soccer.  He touched our hearts from the moment Jenny and I saw him.  We swiftly “adopted” him and found ourselves giddy with excitement as we shared the news with Ford.  We wrote Gonzalo letters, sent him a care package, followed up with emails, and waited to hear from him. 

Months went by.  We sent more emails and photos.  We continued to pray for Gonzalo and his family.  We hung his photo on our refrigerator so we would remember him each day.  We sent him a monetary birthday gift (he’s a May baby like me) and hoped he would be able to pick something special just for him. 

Then, the day arrived!  We received a letter from Gonzalo!  And pictures too!  With his gift, he was able to purchase a bicycle and a new pair of shoes.  He told us, “I always dreamed that one day I would have a bike! Now, I can play sports after school!”  A lump formed in my throat as I thought of the various bikes taking up space in our over-crowded garage.  Our small kindness fulfilled an unimaginable DREAM!  

Since, we have received additional letters from Gonzalo.  He tells us about his life, his country, and his family.  He is happy and he loves us! 

This kindness is not altruistic.  By allowing us this opportunity to sponsor Gonzalo, World Vision is giving us a kindness far beyond any we have known. 

If you would like to sponsor a child, go to www.WorldVision.Org.  You can give a gift that will change a life.  That life might just be yours!

A Lack of Ideas for Kindness is No Excuse!

Today’s kindness quotes have been brought to you by Pinterest!  To see more, travel to www.pinterest.com, (Hey, there are some people out there who may not use it.) and type the word KINDNESS into the search.  Then, click away!  The kindness ideas are endless.  The inspiration is valuable.  The stories are amazing.  Your heart will definitely thank you. xoxo

People are Kind!

Although I don’t usually submit to the CALL OF THE CLAW, I found Nicholas’s and Sofia’s laughter enchanting.  It was for this reason that I handed over the quarters they required to play the game. With each near capture of the stuffed animal of interest, the children’s whoops and hollers bounced off the ceiling of the pizza parlor.  (We were the only customers in the place.)  They met their losses with enthusiasm as well, as they never thought for a minute they would not win the prize—as long as their moms’ quarters held out! 

With the third round of quarters, I warned Nicholas, “This is it!  There will be no more!”  He barely caught the end of my sentence before he was running back to the machine.  And then, wonder of wonders.  He won!!  Oh lucky day!  Nicholas was now the proud owner of a half stuffed, lopsided, peeled fabric, snowman.  “I feel like I am in a dream!” he told me.  I have never seen a brighter smile on his face.

Sofia’s cheers of success and total excitement matched Nicholas’s.  She was genuinely happy for her friend.  Then, Nicholas said, “I’m going to win one for Sofia, next!”  He was a pro, you see.

A few more quarters went into the machine.  A few more near wins came and went.  But, the time had come to end the game.  Sofia would not receive her snowman.  Sofia was a trooper.  The two sat down to finish their lunch and together they played with Nicholas’s snowman.

Ten minutes later, a man in an apron emerged from the kitchen and stepped up to the game.  The claw would glide again!  Nicholas and Sofia were thrilled.  They crowded in on him, offering their expert tips and advice.  

Apparently it worked, because before we knew it, the snowman was traveling into the pick-up tray.  The man (we later found out his name was Matt), promptly handed the snowman to Sofia, who thankfully claimed her prize.

Matt, we thank you so very much for your kindness!  You made two children (and two mothers) very happy today!

Matt would not be the last person to show kindness today.  An hour later, we watched as an anonymous man climbed a tree to retrieve Snowman #1 from its branches located just above where Nicholas and Sofia were attempting to see who could throw their snowman the highest!

Acts of Kindness - Random Acts of Kindness - Deliberate Acts of Kindness

PEOPLE ARE KIND!

Volunteer at Your Child's School!

I found this story in Nicholas’s school bag the other day.  It brought instant tears (happy tears).  To be honest, I didn’t think he noticed!  ;) 

For those who have difficulty reading Nicholas's writing, punctuation, and spelling, here is the intent of the note:

One day our class went to the Thanksgiving Feast.  It was the best feast ever.  My mom was there.  I spent most of the time with her and I love my mom.  My mom loves me.  

You see, over the course of the last year, I have been volunteering at Nicholas’s school.  Yes, I have taken on the school yearbook (yikes!).  Yes, I am in the PTA.  For this reason, I find myself on the campus quite often. I never thought I would be one of “those” moms.  

In previous years, the PTA was that acronym that collected money at the beginning of the year.  That was all. Now I know better.  After spending quite a bit of time getting to know “those” moms, and learning about what they do, I have a new respect for that acronym!

“Those” moms are some of the most valuable assets a school can acquire.  “Those” moms work long hours (even late into the night), volunteering (that means without pay!) for various activities that benefit the school and its staff and children.

Their kindnesses, which I am sure stem from their desire to do great things for their children, extend throughout the community.  Teachers, staff, students, families, and visitors all benefit from some form of PTA contribution.

If you know one of these moms at your child’s school, thank them for all that they do for your children.  If you don’t know one, get to know one!  They could be your connection to your child during the course of the school day.  They will definitely keep you in the loop!

And, if you have a chance to become one of “those” moms, do it!  I speak from experience when I tell you; you will be doing an amazing kindness to your community, your children, and yourself!
  

Thanksgiving Feast Volunteers

Make Them Laugh!

I've said it before, and I will say it again!  Never be afraid to make a fool of yourself for someones's benefit! Although they may look at you funny, they will be grateful for your caring heart and kind actions! If you can make someone laugh, you've done your kindness part!

PS - We love Granny Bananny!

The Boo Boo Kiss

A few days ago, I was coming into the house after picking up my son, Nicholas, from school. I found myself tripping over the dog, Nicholas’s shoes, the doorstep, the other dog, and finally, Nicholas.  Only seconds prior to this, I heard Nicholas yell, “Ow!”  He was trying to take off his shoes (directly in front of the doorway and me) and somehow he managed to snag a finger nail.  (This fact I learned later, as in the moment I was trying to get the dogs outside, the bags I held in my hand put on the counter, and myself into the much needed rest room.)After changing clothes, picking up a little around my room, and grabbing my laundry basket, I found my way back to the other side of the house to discover Nicholas slamming things around, grumbling at the dog, and kicking the side of the chair he was sitting on—clearly, a ploy for attention.

OK, I’ll bite.  “Why are you acting like this?”  I asked him. “You were in a great mood on the way home from school!”

“You don’t care about my hurts anymore, Mommy!”  He told me.  And then he showed me his hang nail.  “I said, ‘OW!’ and you didn’t even kiss my boo boo!”  Ahhhhh....The tender, loving kindness of the boo boo kiss.  There is no better medicine in the world!

It’s a simple kindness.  Acknowledge the source of the pain of others.  Help them to acknowledge it as well.  Associate the source of the pain with love and attention.  I assure you this will help to ease the pain.  Of course, the greater the pain is, the greater the need for love and attention may be.  But a simple boo boo kiss is a nice way to start.

Top: Heller, bravely showing his Mapa and me his bike mishap boo boo.  

Above:  Nicholas (Age 2) kissing his baby doll's boo boo and feeling very sad about the baby's pain.

Spread a Little Sunshine

Do you know someone who could use a pick-me-up? Here's a wonderful idea from my sister, Ashley.  Take it from me--it works!!  This is the basket she gave to me on Heller's birthday. Sometimes it just takes a little bit of sunshine to find your way out of total darkness.  And, kindness and sunshine always go hand-in-hand!  

Sometimes you have to...

Get Ready to Share Kindness!

Are you ready to celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Because of Heller Day?!  “No,” you say?  You didn’t realize it was December already?!  You don’t have a dime to your name because you spent all your money on Black Friday?  You just had a run of October-November birthdays and parties to pay for?  (That was me.)  

Well, I have good news.  You still have 21 days to get ready.  And, the even better news?!  Kindness doesn’t have to cost a thing!  And, BEST OF ALL?!  Kindness PAYS YOU BACK!!

I heard a song today.  I know you’ve heard it too.  It was, The Little Drummer Boy.  It’s definitely a top fiver for me as far as Christmas songs go.  I used to sing it to Heller when he was a toddler.  He loved to sing along, dance, and beat his drum while I sang.  If I sang it for you, I guarantee you would not find it a kindness, but Heller loved my singing, and he rewarded me with his laughter and music.

The song is about kindness.  The Little Drummer Boy had nothing, and yet he gave.  He shared what he had.  And what a reward!  Baby Jesus “smiled at him!”  Whew!  That would be enough for me.

To get into the spirit of the season, I would like to share the song I heard today.  Go ahead.  Have a listen! Just click the link below.  And, when it’s over, start getting ready.  You have lots of kindnesses to share!  Get ready to put them out there!

Little Drummer Boy - A capella.

If this is your first visit to Heller's site, click the joined hands at the top of the page and view our kindness history!  We are so glad you are here!  xoxo

Today is a Day for Celebration!

Today is the anniversary of the day that Heller joined our Father in his Kingdom!  It's a day for celebration.  It's a day to remember a little boy who celebrated kindness!  We ask you to join us in our celebration of Heller and kindness!  In His Love!!  xoxo

I Have a Gift to Bring

Remember the Little Drummer Boy?  He sang, “I have no gift to bring…to lay before a King….”  Remember his gift?  It brought a smile from the baby Jesus.  The Little Drummer Boy gave from his natural ability and provided an offering strait from his heart.

This year, I am admitting to you, I am feeling overwhelmed.  I don’t know if it is because the days fall in sync with those days five years ago when the week of excitement ended differently than we ever imagined.  Or perhaps I am simply justifying my idleness with my own excuses.  The truth is I’ve been chanting “I have no gift to bring…”  That’s right.  I am unprepared for December 22^nd. 

 I once read a story about a woman who had suffered recent hardship and felt like she was alone in the world.  One evening, she came home from work and clicked the message retrieval button on her answering machine.  Someone had played piano music to her recorder.  She never found out who it was, but she said that her spirits were instantly lifted.  I am sorry I cannot give credit to the story teller, but the story stayed with me.

I, however, cannot play the piano.  I cannot play any instrument if you want to know the truth.

I’ve mentioned it before—Heller was a master LEGO builder.  He could build pirate ships, cars, and more.  My favorite creations, however, were his trophies.  To receive a trophy from Heller was something special—an easy kindness he could deliver that I will never forget.

I am not a LEGO builder.

Lately, I have been receiving beautiful works of art from Heller’s little brother, Nicholas.  I am quite impressed with his ability, but most of all, I am impressed with the kindness he displays with each presentation.  “Mommy I made this for you,” is music to my ears, and it always brings a smile.

I am no artist.

But, I do have a gift.  I simply have to search my soul and find a way to use my gift. 

Join me and spread kindness like never before!

Close Kindness

 

Often, we think of random and deliberate acts of kindness as those acts we perform for strangers and individuals that we barely know.  Those stories of randomness are entertaining, inspiring, and make for excellent viral videos for Facebook and YouTube, but some of the very best stories of kindness take place right in our own homes. Remember to deliver acts of kindness to those closest to your heart!

Kindness Reminder:  Set aside special time for those you love. 

A special thank you to Anne for the beautiful, handmade ornament shown in the photo above.  I have been hanging it on my Christmas trees for more than twenty years, and I think of you each time I do.  xoxo

HUGS!

Heller was a hugger.  I once met with Heller’s kindergarten teacher (by her request) to discuss Heller’s behavior in class.  School had just begun and I was deeply concerned as we sat down.  She began, “Heller won’t stop hugging the children.” 

My breath released in part sigh of relief and part laughter.  “Is he hurting anyone?” I asked.  “Are they asking him not to?” 

She continued, “Well, no…” she clarified.  “In fact, they ask him to hug them.  He is just such a big boy, and some of the children in his class are so small.  I am afraid I will get complaints from the parents.” 

I must admit, Heller did not receive a reprimand from me.  I knew that he would never hurt anyone.  And, I also knew I would never stop him from hugging. 

Hugs come from love.  Physically and emotionally, hugs say, “I care about you.”  If you ask me, more people should hug and be hugged.

As other parents and children filed into the classroom for their individual conferences, a dark haired little girl came running to greet us.  “Heller!” she whooped.  “Can I have a hug?”  Her mother laughed beside her as Heller's hug lifted her from her feet.  “She talks about Heller and his hugs ALL THE TIME.” she told me. 

I sensed no complaints.

Kindness reminder:  Hug someone and ask someone to hug you.  XXXX

Words to Live By

Have you thought about how you will spread kindness Because of Heller this year?  The opportunities are endless.   I pulled together some words to live by in the hope that it will help spark your minds, your hearts, and your creativity.  As I do each year, I am asking each of you to share some thoughts about how you will celebrate December 22^nd.  What kindnesses will YOU deliver? 
 

Among other kindnesses, Heller’s family and friends will once again host a peanut butter and jelly drive and collect donations for ECHO (Heller’s favorite charity).  Let us know if you have a contribution you would like to have delivered.

Thank you all so much for continuing to remember Heller with random and deliberate acts of kindness.  I cannot express in a blog post how much it means to his family and friends.

In His love,

Hayley (Heller's Mom)

PS - If you are new to Random Acts of Kindness Because of Heller, we welcome you.  Take a moment to browse through and get to know Heller.  Your heart will thank you.  Don't forget to say hello.  :)

Out-of-the-Blue and Spirit-Lifting

I logged onto Facebook this morning and discovered this note waiting for me. I should probably tell you, heartfelt words and acknowledgement that Heller's Day makes someone happy, these are two of my most favorite kindnesses!

Simply Give from Your Heart!

Kindness and Laughter

We called it “letting out his air.”

The sound Heller made when we tickled his neck reminded us of a wayward balloon as it flips and rolls and twirls through the air in its silly deflation dance.  It made us laugh.  It made him laugh that we laughed about it. Heller’s laugher is the memory that I try to pull to the front of my mind most often when I think about my Sunshine.   It was pretty perfect in the way that it too flipped and rolled and twirled.

Did you know that laughter and kindness go together as well as peanut butter and jelly?

Make someone laugh and you will provide a physical, emotional, and social benefit that costs nothing and is worth everything!

Be careful—like kindness, laughter is contagious! 

Share Kindness!

I don't know which one of the children at the park that day decided that the stick should be moved.  Nor do I know which child reached for the first end.  I can only imagine the stick was heavy, but I couldn't tell you who worked the hardest, or who gave the most.  The one thing I can tell you is, the sound of laughter reached throughout the park, drawing in more and more children to become a part of the effort.

Did you know that kindness works just like that?!  Do a good deed and you are not only sharing kindness with others, but giving it to yourself.  When others around you see how much fun you are having, they won't be able to help themselves from joining in.  Even better--invite someone to join you. Imagine how much fun we will have when more and more of us become a part of the effort!

I Want a Hippopotamus...

Kindness is, taking the time to get to know your friends and family.  Show them that you are paying attention, that you hear them, and that you care about their needs.  And, even if you could never give them their absolute heart’s desire, find a way to let them know you would if you could!