Color the World with Kindness

Introduction

      This little book is meant to be an inspirational guide for anyone struggling to renew their self-worth, improve their self-esteem, and discover their purpose in life.
      I hope that in reading it, you understand that everyone can find meaning and joy in their lives by giving to others. There is no better feeling than giving when nothing is expected in return. Remember, kindness is not hard or time-consuming...it only takes 60 seconds!
     When my career was derailed by a chronic illness seven years ago, I struggled with depression, despair, and self-pity. I had been a vivacious, active, "Type A," driven woman who followed the American dream of climbing the corporate ladder. Unable to have children, my career was my focus. When I could no longer work, I suddenly felt like a failure because I could no longer make a meaningful contribution to society in the way I had always wanted.
     During times of struggle, it's natural to think "Why me?" or "What is the point of living like this?" or "What do I have to offer the world?" I get it. I understand the pain and feelings of low self-esteem and lack of value.
     However, when I began to reflect on the good feelings I had experienced while volunteering when I was healthy, my thoughts began to shift. I enjoyed helping the elderly, the disabled, and many pet rescue organizations. Despite my pain and low energy levels, I began to volunteer with a local hospice organization. Although it was often difficult to maintain the one to two hour weekly commitment, the time spent giving to someone in a less fortunate position made me grateful for what I still possessed.
     My mind-set shifted further as I began practicing acts of kindness to everyone I came into contact with...a customer service agent on the telephone, a grocery store clerk, a stranger on the street.

     I realized that no matter what we are experiencing in our own lives, we are put on this planet for a purpose. Perhaps my purpose was not to raise the bottom line of a corporation's profits, but to raise the consciousness of others to spread kindness in the world.
     Use this book as a tool to see what you can do differently in your dayto- day activities. After each act of kindness, there is a reflection question for you to ponder and make a kindness plan you can easily implement.
     Don't forget to start with a little self-kindness. If you are struggling with a physical or emotional issue, don't be too hard on yourself. If you aren't kind to yourself first, you'll never know how to be kind to others.
     I'd love to connect with you. Please follow my journey at http://60SecondstoKindness.com and join my Kindness Junkie community by signing up for the free monthly newsletter.