Do you remember the last time you experienced an act of kindness? Or the last time you extended kindness to someone else? As adults, our perspective on life often shifts due to the demands of our circumstances. Yet, there’s so much we can still learn from our childhood.Here is my story of a kind act that I have always been grateful about and 15 other acts of kindness from childhood that we should all try to embrace once again!
- 1. Sharing and building connections
- 2. Valuing the people who make time to be with us
- 3. Helping without thinking twice
- 4. Checking in on sick loved ones
- 5. Making time for the elderly in our communities
- 6. Quick to forgive. Quick to accept.
- 7. Expressing love and regret through the written word
- 8. Smiling freely
- 9. Creating a circle of belonging: ensuring no one is left out
- 10. Working in harmony and passion
- 11. Taking action for those who need help
- 12. Saying thank you
- 13. Staying curious- questioning and discovering
- 14. Supporting your friends and family in word and deed, even when they're not around.
- 15. Refusing with empathy
My story
The doorbell rang and I sighed. After two weeks of terrible morning sickness, battling feelings of gloom and stress in a foreign country on a temporary visit visa, with none of my loved ones nearby, my first thought was, “Now who could it be?”
Except, this wasn’t a stranger. It was my next-door neighbor in Muscat, coming to check on me. “Rubitah, how are you feeling now? I heard you vomiting from the bathroom. Your husband told me you’re pregnant. Listen, I cooked a little extra today. You both can have this for lunch, okay?”
My eyes welled up at her kind gesture. At the time, I thought it was just my hormones making me overly emotional. But now, when I look back on it, I realize how blessed I was to receive such a pure act of kindness.
She didn’t know me well—we had met only briefly three times before that day—but her thoughtful gesture spoke volumes about the kind of person she was. From that day, and for about four weeks after, she continued to send us lunch, making sure I had regained my strength.
Such is kindness: a gesture that touches you when you’re most vulnerable, and one that, when valued, inspires the receiver to pay it forward.
As a child, I remember kindness and giving- being innate to many of us. Without the distractions of technology or the fear of being taken advantage of, we acted on every impulse with fairness and compassion. Today, I’m listing 15 acts of kindness that come to mind.
1. Sharing and building connections
Be it birthdays or even a regular lunch, we shared everything that we had with our friends, without a second thought. Remember the birthday years, when we distributed toffees or chocolates to all our classmates? It made us feel special to know that our buddies were looking out for that moment, the entire day and the smile on their faces when they received it- priceless!
Nowadays we have been manipulated into thinking that sharing makes us weak. We are asked to protect our ideas, time and energy and build walls around us so that no one knows what and who we are.
What can be done?
Reclaim the joy of sharing by incorporating it into your adult life in small ways. For example, sharing an interesting article, a helpful tip, or a simple gesture like paying for a friend’s coffee can continue the cycle of connection. Studies show that acts of kindness, even small ones, can significantly boost your own happiness and well-being.
So next time you share something, whether it’s an idea or a moment, embrace the warmth it can bring to both you and the person receiving it. Remember, sharing doesn’t make us weak—it makes us stronger and more connected to the world around us.
2. Valuing the people who make time to be with us
As children, we instinctively knew the value of spending time with those who made an effort to visit us at home. Even if the conversation wasn’t always exciting, we embraced the opportunity to connect and make others feel seen and heard.
What can be done?
In today’s busy world, we often forget the power of giving our time freely. But reconnecting with the simple joy of being present for others- without expecting anything in return- can refresh your relationships and remind you of the richness that human connection brings.
Sometimes, the best things in life aren’t transactional- they’re simply moments shared.
3. Helping without thinking twice
As children, helping others was second nature- whether it was assisting a teacher, offering a hand to a fallen classmate, or sharing our lunch with a friend in need. We didn’t overthink it, we just acted out of kindness.
Today we are scared to help. “What if it backfires? What if this person takes advantage of my sensitive side?” we worry.
What can be done?
While it’s true that helping others can feel risky in today’s world, embracing our innate kindness can often lead to the most rewarding experiences. Helping, without expectation, can build trust, strengthen relationships, and remind us of the simple joy that comes from being there for others. Sometimes, the greatest act of courage is to help, regardless of the outcome.
4. Checking in on sick loved ones
I remember visiting many of my church uncles and aunties with my parents, when I was small, knowing they had gone through a tough time. Even when a neighbourhood or school friend fell sick, we’d visit, call, or check in, just to let them know they weren’t alone and that we cared.
But now, we often find ourselves too busy to even send a message when it matters most. We’ve become complacent in reaching out to our loved ones and have grown indifferent to not being checked on either.
What can be done?
In today’s busy world, it’s easy to forget the impact of simply checking in. But even a short message or quick call can brighten someone’s day and show them they are valued. Reclaim the habit of reaching out—it doesn’t take much, but it means everything to those who need it most. A little care goes a long way!
5. Making time for the elderly in our communities
It was once the norm to share a quick conversation with the elderly who would step out for a stroll in the evenings. The best part was, as children, we didn’t have to make an effort—it was always the older generation who sparked the conversation, full of questions and amusing stories. Their presence made it a joy just to be around them.
Today we have completely forgotten them. We have no time or heart to even inquire about them. This is truly unfortunate.
What can be done?
Reconnecting with the elderly in our communities can offer us valuable perspectives and enrich our lives in ways we might not expect. Taking a moment to listen to their stories, ask how they’re doing, or simply share a smile can brighten their day—and ours. By rediscovering these small, meaningful connections, we can cultivate a sense of community and honour the generations before us.
6. Quick to forgive. Quick to accept.
As a child it was so easy to forgive and forget petty fights. We always new our friendships were worth more than the small irritations and disappointments that came in between. Even with our parents, we hardly kept a grudge and accepted them even when they were not so nice!
Today, we hold onto every incident and take everything personally. We demand- ‘‘My needs must come first, and you should be okay with that.‘
What can be done?
In a world that often encourages us to hold onto grudges, embracing forgiveness and acceptance can be a powerful choice. By letting go of minor disappointments and focusing on what truly matters (our relationships and well-being)- we can create more peaceful, compassionate connections. Sometimes, the greatest strength lies in our ability to forgive and move forward, with kindness leading the way.
7. Expressing love and regret through the written word
Love letters and notes were once a delightful tradition. We were not only thrilled to receive them but also loved expressing our feelings through handwritten words. Letters of regret were common too, as we expressed our apologies and promised to do better—“I’m sorry, Mummy. I promise I won’t do this again.” Remember?
Though some still write such letters, often to their spouses, how often do we take the time to write a note of appreciation or gratitude, just to brighten someone’s day?
What can be done?
Taking a moment to express love or thanks through a letter can be a beautiful way to nurture connections and show we care, with no expectation of anything in return. The simple act of writing can rekindle the warmth of human connection.
8. Smiling freely
As children, we smiled at everyone—whether they were strangers or friends. There was always something to smile about: a new day, seeing classmates, a free period, a compliment, a kind teacher, playtime, food, music, and so much more.
In the busyness of adulthood, we often forget how powerful a smile can be. It’s a simple gesture, but one that can bring warmth to our own hearts and brighten someone else’s day.
What can be done?
Reclaim the habit of smiling more, not just for others but for yourself—because sometimes, the smallest act of joy is all we need to shift our perspective and make life a little lighter.
9. Creating a circle of belonging: ensuring no one is left out
As children, we made sure no one was ever left out. Whether in school or among friends, we always aimed to create a sense of belonging by ensuring that everyone had a say and was happy with the decisions being made. There was often an unspoken leader who kept the group united and fair.
What can be done?
As adults, it’s easy to become more cautious and protect our own interests, but remembering the spirit of inclusion can strengthen our relationships, both personally and professionally. By supporting each other and being mindful of everyone’s needs, we can build environments where trust, respect, and fairness prevail. A little empathy can go a long way in fostering true teamwork and camaraderie.
10. Working in harmony and passion
In childhood, teamwork brought a special kind of joy. Whether it was preparing for a school presentation or organizing a community event, everyone in the group worked together to ensure success. No one was pursuing their own interests, the focus was always on the collective goal. If one person struggled, others stepped in to help, ensuring the team still performed at its best.
What can be done?
In today’s corporate world, we often face environments that can be less collaborative and more competitive. However, embracing the true spirit of teamwork—where integrity, support, and mutual respect drive success—can still create powerful, positive outcomes. By focusing on shared goals and valuing every individual’s contribution, we can rebuild a sense of unity that fosters both personal and collective growth.
11. Taking action for those who need help
As children, we felt deeply moved by the struggles of others—whether it was a beggar on the street or a classmate who had been unfairly punished. We would talk about it at home or with friends, brainstorming ways to help and make a difference, no matter how small.
Today, we often overlook the suffering around us, caught in our own worries and pursuits.
What can be done?
The truth is, reaching out to help others, even in small ways, can actually lift our own spirits. By focusing on someone else’s needs, we not only ease their burden but also find a deeper sense of fulfilment and purpose. Helping others may just be the remedy to our own struggles.
12. Saying thank you
We were taught by our parents to say thank you for everything we received, whether we liked it or not. Back then, we didn’t always understand why, but now we see how important it is to be thankful for everything.
Even if something isn’t useful to us right now, it’s a reminder that we were chosen to receive it, and that’s something to appreciate.
13. Staying curious- questioning and discovering
As children, we were constantly curious- questioning, experimenting, and exploring the world around us. We loved our little adventures of discovery, always eager to learn more.
Today, we often accept things without question, taking them at face value.
What can be done?
Reigniting that sense of curiosity can help us see the world with fresh eyes, challenge assumptions, and keep our minds open to new ideas and possibilities. Asking questions and seeking understanding can lead to deeper knowledge and a more enriching life.
14. Supporting your friends and family in word and deed, even when they’re not around.
As children, we took pride in celebrating the achievements of our loved ones. There was competition, yes, but we still cheered for them, defended them, and praised them, even when they weren’t there to hear it.
Today, we often weigh the value of our support. We ask ourselves, “Will helping this person benefit me or make me more valuable in everyone’s eyes?”
What can be done?
True support isn’t about what we gain in return. It’s about standing by those we care about, regardless of their presence or our own benefit. Real connection grows when we uplift others selflessly, creating a stronger bond of trust and loyalty.
15. Refusing with empathy
In childhood, when we didn’t want to do something, our refusals were always gentle and respectful. We’d say things like, “I’d love to, but I’ve got other plans.” or “Sorry, I wish I could, but I’m totally tied up.” We never needed to put anyone down or make them feel bad for offering something we didn’t want.
What can be done?
Today, many of us are quick to set boundaries, but we often forget that we don’t need to dismiss others or hurt their feelings in the process. A refusal made with empathy not only respects our needs but also keeps relationships intact with kindness and understanding.
For example, when someone asks you for a favour, instead of saying, “I don’t want to do it. Figure it out yourself,” you could say, “I’d love to help, but I’m swamped with my own tasks right now. Can we figure out a different solution together?”
Or when declining an invitation, instead of replying with, “I don’t feel like going. It sounds boring and I don’t want to waste my time,” a more empathetic response would be, “I really appreciate the invite, but I’m feeling drained and need some time to rest. I hope you understand!”
By setting boundaries with empathy, we can protect our own needs while also preserving kindness and respect in our relationships.
……………..
I now realize the true value of kind gestures because I was shown one myself. I understand how much I needed that simple act to feel loved and cared for. It gave me the courage to extend kindness to others, even when they weren’t kind to me.
The world and the people around us need kindness too- especially when it’s difficult, when they don’t respect us, or when they hold different views. We can still be kind, just like we were in childhood, while maintaining healthy boundaries. That’s why kindness is one of the most sought-after qualities in a partner or a friend. (related: What to look for in a life partner)
“Remember, there’s no such thing as a small act of kindness. Every act creates a ripple with no logical end.” — Scott Adams
Have you experienced any acts of kindness in your life? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Hi! My name is Rubitah. I’m a Content Writer certified Life Coach, Counselor, Social Work professional and the Founder of Being Rubitah. Over the years through my professional and personal life, I have realized that prayers and love can do wonders to family life once you come to terms with yourself and surrender to God. Do you relate to me? Then you may like what I post here! Read more about me
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