Tender Moments.

"Do good things today."

My sweet husband told me these words when I kissed him goodbye this morning. And though it was meant to be a simple sentiment to wish me a good day, I can't stop thinking about how I can fulfill his request.

What am I doing with my time that allows me to do good for myself? For others? For the world?

Today, I am making a change. I will wake up each morning thinking about how I can do good things, rather than keeping my mind focused on all the other aspects of my life. I will take time to help others who are in need. I will make time for my own physical, mental, and spiritual wellness. I will stand up for my beliefs and make the world a better place in any way that I can. I will show compassion and empathy for those around me. I will believe in humanity. I will change the world one random act of kindness at a time.

When I think of how I can change the world, so many specific ideas come to mind. I could help underprivileged families. I could become an activist for the oppressed. I could adopt lots of children and help them escape poverty and feelings of hopelessness. I could donate to charities. I could help the disabled. I could feed the hungry or give water to the thirsty. I could spread the gospel. I could do so many things to do good, and all of these things would be part of it. But the one thing that remains constant in all of these ideas is kindness.

Kindness is the key to changing the world. When kindness and love are our motivations, everything we do will be profound. Everything we seek will be good.

"Kindness is the essence of greatness and the fundamental characteristic of the noblest men and women I have known. Kindness is a passport that opens doors and fashions friends. It softens hearts and molds relationships that can last lifetimes. 

"Kind words not only lift our spirits in the moment they are given, but they can linger with us over the years." 

Joseph B. Wirthlin, "The Virtue of Kindness," April 2005

 Today, and every day, make it your goal to lift others up with kindness and "do good things," no matter the cost.

I am so grateful for these gentle reminders from Heavenly Father to serve others unconditionally and with love. I adore my sweet husband and his love for the Savior and am grateful for his profound words, right when I needed them.

Today I will choose to see the world differently and I will be grateful for tender moments like these.