I came across a quote recently that hit me hard:

“You never really know the true impact you have on those around you. You never know how much someone needed that smile you gave them. You never know how much your kindness turned someone’s entire life around. You never know how much someone needed that long hug or deep talk. So don’t wait to be kind. Don’t wait for someone else to be kind first. Don’t wait for better circumstances or for someone to change. Just be kind, because you never know how much someone needs it.” ~Nikki Banas

It struck a deep chord in me because it reminds me of something I have come to realize on my own journey – kindness is more than just an outward action, it is a lifeline. There have been moments in my life where a simple smile, a warm hug, or a few kind words from someone made a world of difference, even though they had no idea how much I needed it.

There is a vulnerability in showing up for others with kindness, especially in a world that is often harsh and unkind. Well, here is the truth: we don’t always know what people are going through. We don’t know what battles they are silently fighting or what is weighing on their hearts. That person you see at work, the person behind the counter, the friend you think has it all together — they could be on the edge of their limit, just needing one kind act to give them hope or shift their perspective.

This reminds me of a friend I once had, whose life was profoundly impacted by a tragic event. She and her sister grew up without their mother, who took her own life when they were young. Their mother was a nurse—someone who dedicated herself to caring for others—but she silently struggled with depression. One evening at work, her colleagues began making fun of her. They probably thought it was harmless banter, but to her, it felt different. It cut deeply. She mentioned she needed to run home to retrieve something, but instead she went home and ended her life. It is heartbreaking to realize that something as seemingly innocent as a joke could be the final straw for someone in such pain.

I have learned that being kind is not about grand gestures or waiting for the “right time.” It is about showing up as your best self for others, regardless of what is going on in your life. Sometimes, just being present and offering a smile or kind word can have an immeasurable impact.

This suggestion to “just be kind” is not just a reminder for the sake of others. It is also necessary for your own peace and wellbeing. I know when I choose to be kind, regardless of how I am feeling or what is happening around me, I feel lighter. It allows me to move through the world with more grace. In turn, it cultivates inner peace. In choosing kindness, I am not only extending grace to others but also to myself.

It is easy to get caught up in waiting — waiting for someone to be kind to us first…waiting for a situation to change…waiting for someone else to make the first move. I have realized that in doing so, I am just adding to the weight I am carrying. Holding on to resentment or bitterness only harms me. The longer I wait, the further I distance myself from peace and fulfillment. When I lead with kindness, I am releasing those weights. I am letting go of expectations, of wanting others to act a certain way before I extend my warmth.

I have also come to understand that kindness is an essential part of preserving my own wellbeing. It is a way of honoring myself and the type of energy I want to carry. When I choose to be kind, I am not doing it for accolades or acknowledgment. I am doing it because it is who I want to be. I know that in the process, I am protecting my own peace.

The truth is, the world needs more kindness. We are all struggling with something. And while we might not always be able to fix what is broken in someone else’s life, we can offer kindness. we can provide that small spark of hope that lets them know they are seen and that they do matter.

So, please do not wait. Be kind today. Whether it is a simple smile, a heartfelt compliment, or just showing up when someone needs you most. Know that your kindness could be exactly what someone needs to get through their day, or even turn their life around. In offering that, you might just find yourself feeling lighter, more connected, and at peace.

The world needs your kindness. More importantly, you need your kindness for your heart, your peace, and your wellbeing.

Spread your light,

Erika