A Simple Act Of Kindness

I was recently reminded of the importance of kindness in this world.  While visiting my sister we spoke about all the great work the Suicide Prevention Networks do across the country.

She shared with me a personal experience where she was going about her busy daily schedule when she bumped into an old school friend that she had not seen for 15 years.  They were not close at school and she had an appointment she was running late for, but made 2 minutes to say a quick hello, a hug and tell him how good it was to see him.

She didn’t give it a second thought until around a week later when she received a message from him.   He thanked her for her smile, hug and kind words and explained he was actually on his way to take his life when he ran into her.

Our lives are so busy and we constantly have our heads buried in our phones, commitments, responsibilities and schedules that we often miss the opportunities that present.  Like most mental health issues, the most valuable thing we can give to someone struggling is some of our time to talk.

We all have daily opportunities to impact those around us.  Whether we choose to ignore the opportunities or embrace them, is up to us.  Don’t underestimate the power of asking someone how they are, giving someone a smile, encouraging them on something they do well at, giving them a hug, or including them in a conversation.

A simple act of kindness can actually save a life.  

Written by Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network Treasurer Paul Burke

As little as a conversation with an old friend you pass by on the street can save a life, writes contributor Paul Burke

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