Welcome, insecure writers! If you haven't joined this amazing group yet, clicky here and go for it. You won't be sorry.
On Memorial Day weekend, a Vacaville, CA fire crew was buying groceries at the store. Before they were able to pay, they got an emergency call and had to leave. When they returned, a paid receipt was given to them with these words written on it: "Firefighters, thanks for being there for us! Have a good weekend." It was signed by an Air Force wife. The firefighters then used the money they saved and paid it forward. Click here for the whole story.
Cool, right?
My sons' sixth grade teacher read my book and took the time to send an email that brought tears to my eyes. I told him I'd save the email and read it on days when I'm struggling. His kind words meant the world to me.
These acts of kindness remind me that the simplest gestures can often mean the most. We're all capable of giving kindness, and we're thankful to receive it. In a world that sometimes seems off kilter, it's nice to know kindness remains one of the greatest gifts of all.
The writing community overflows with kindness. How can we pay it forward? Here are a few ideas:
Encourage a fellow writer who's feeling discouraged (this group is THE place for that)
Remind a writer to persevere
Offer positive remarks when giving a critique
Remind fellow writers why they started writing--don't lose the joy!
When we hear good news, spread the word and offer praise
At a conference, invite other writers to sit beside you or at your table
Kindness is one of those rare gifts that when you give it away, it seems to find its way back to you.
Have you witnessed random acts of kindness? Do you have other "pay it forward" ideas you'd like to share?