It's Be Kind to Humankind Week

Did you know that Aug. 25-31 is Be Kind to Humankind Week?

I just learned about this upcoming celebration this past week. This week has been celebrated annually for the past 22 years. In 1988, Lorraine Jara read an article in her local newspaper that upset her. Two men in a boat equipped with radio equipment passed by two other boaters who were in trouble and needed help. When the troubled boaters asked for help, they were refused and consequently one of the young men died.

Jara felt that this story needed to be told to raise awareness and to serve as a reminder that we are a community and that we must respond to the needs of our neighbors.

Be Kind to Humankind Week gives special emphasis on each of seven days:

• Motorist Consideration Monday
• Touch-a-Heart Tuesday
• Willing to Lend a Hand Wednesday         
• Thoughtful Thursday
• Forgive Your Foe Friday
• Speak Kind Words Saturday
• Sacrifice Our Wants for Others’ Needs Sunday

This week long initiative has received significant publicity and has been listed in Chase’s Book Of Annual Events. Jara says, “Signs of positive change surround us if only we choose to see and hear them.” It is her hope that people will choose to recognize the humanity of those around them, respond with care and concern and that the media will choose to give more attention to these uplifting stories.

You might be asking what the “Be Kind to Humankind Week” has to do with business. My response is, “it has everything to do with business.” Monday certainly speaks to patience while traveling for business. This could lower your stress level. If you don’t practice motorist consideration for the sake of others, then do it for yourself! Touch-A-Heart on Tuesday and spread the love to your customers. Let them know you care about them. On Wednesday, when the opportunity to lend a hand comes your way, offer your time. How can you show your thoughtfulness on Thursday? Think small!  It is those small considerations that matter. Open the door for the person behind you. Smile at someone and brighten their day. On Friday, forgive one person and do it for yourself! There is an old saying that holding a grudge is “like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die.” End the week by recognizing that your words are powerful. Use them well and kindly. On Sunday, do something to bring joy to another person.  You’ll warm your own heart.

Please join me during Be Kind to Humankind Week and seize the opportunity to be more kindly aware of our clients and community. Share your stories to inspire others.

Be kind!