Passing it Forward with Kindness Quest

May 7, 2012 11:29 am CT

By Guest Blogger Carol Crytser, associate director, Lazarus House

When I first heard about Kindness Quest, I was intrigued and knew it was something I would want to participate in. I promptly called my friend Lea to see if she would like to join me. I am so glad we decided to be a part of this event.

Lea and I stopped at a grocery store and purchased gift cards for people we met throughout the day. As we walked into the store, we noticed a display of potted flowers in front. We picked out a few geraniums, some cupcakes and packages of pistachio nuts to pass out with the gift cards.

Our first good deed was right outside the store when we handed a gift card to a woman in the parking lot.  She was so surprised and told us she never had anyone do anything like that for her before. Next, we gave a T-shirt and a package of pistachios to a man who was holding a sign along the road. He gave us a big smile and thanked us for the gifts.

When we attempted to give away the flowers, a woman was hesitant to open her car window and told us the flowers were not hers. Lea explained they were simply a gift of kindness.

Seeing the reactions to simple good deeds were truly inspiring. We had an awesome time passing it forward and hearing how others did so too. I also appreciated the use of the Buick Regal for a few days. With the hands free calling, we made “kindness calls” to friends and family right from the car!