Random Acts of Kindness

Today, on my 76th birthday, I found in my mailbox a single York Peppermint wrapped in a note that wished me Happy Birthday. I had received one last year on my 75th, and the previous year on my 74th. The tiny candy came from an 88-year old, 13-year resident of our senior community who, as it happens, has been routinely giving these mints to everyone on their birthdays for years.Happy Birthday

When I found Jane to thank her, she said: “As principal of my elementary school, I gave every child a small token on their birthday. I didn’t want anyone to feel unnoticed on their special day. Being way beyond elementary school doesn’t diminish the need of all my fellow residents to feel recognized.”

So be it.

Acts of random kindness, gracefully and lovingly performed, bring joy to the giver and the receiver, no matter the age.

Could this be at least one of the special roles of an “elder”?

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