I'm a List Maker

For me, having a list helps me keep on track and organized. I don't know how useful listing is for you, but for me it gives me focus. And having things written down helps me create even more ideas.

So a couple of years ago I started compiling lists of how to make the world better through acts of kindness. I'll share them here and following posts in the hope that they will spark your ideas, and that you will share your list, too.

Today's daily dozen to-do list choices:

• Refrain from judging others or harassing them because they may be different or because of their actions. Search yourself or things you have in common rather than ways you are different.
• Organize a flower-planting party in a nearby park, school, or faith organization. Consider the response others have to the beauty of nature and what a difference that can make for their day when they enjoy your handiwork.
• Write a kind note to relatives and friends, letting them know why they are special.
• Open the door for another person when out in public, no matter who that person is. Smile a greeting.
• Consider needs others may have that you don't see being met and do something to change that. E.g. Approach bookstores owners and publishers about ordering and carrying more books in large print or on tape.
• Talk to others about kindness, why it makes a difference and the fact that it really is easy to do.
• Recycle all newspapers, plastics, aluminum, and paper, even if you have to go out of your way to do it. Be kind to the earth.
• Create a "smile file" with cartoons and pictures that make othrs smile; pick out a cartoon to cheer up a friend in need.
• Take a day and pay a compliment once every hour; practice telling people what you like about them.
• Call an animal shelter and find out what donations they need. Collect treats, food, first aid supplies, toys, cat litter, towels, and soft blankets for the homeless animals. Most shelters will encourage you to come "visit" the animals to give them special individual attention. Go regularly and get your "animal love fix!"
• Switch to pet-safe antifreeze. Antifreeze contains propylene glycol that carries a tempting but fatal taste to animals. Just one teaspoon can kill a cat and two ounces can kill a dog.
• Reduce air pollution by planting trees and plants in your yard.
• Enlist others to participate in the Kindness Campaign.