A little kind gesture can go a long way. Here’s a story from a hiker who recently made the trek to Spruce Flats Falls:
Today I want to share an experience I had a few days ago… This day really did touch my heart.
My way of decompressing is taking a solo hike with some nice views, a journal, and some snacks, of course! This particular day was a muddy, rainy, cloudy day which made the trail a little more “fun,” you could say. The trail seemed to be empty because who’s hiking in the rain on a random Thursday? But to my surprise, I look up for a moment and see the cutest group of elementary school kids taking a field trip in the Smokies. As I would approach, they would all be alerted to make way for the “public hiker” and send me along with words of encouragement. I kept hiking along until I encountered the last group, who really outdid themselves. I chuckled a little as I heard them say to make way for the “public hiker” and as I am approaching, I look again and find these sweet souls creating an arm arch for me to pass through.
This one act, as simple, silly, and fun changed the rest of my week. I felt so much love from the little strangers. It showed me again there truly is so much good in those around me and the pure childlike love we can all tap into. I continued to the falls and was greeted with a gushing flow from all the precipitation. The view was gorgeous and I sat close enough to feel the water on my face.
Moments like this make me feel alive. Makes me gain a better view of the world around me, and puts things back in the right perspective. Now I feel an even greater calling to perform random acts of kindness and keep a positive, uplifting attitude. Kindness can and will change your life and the lives of those around you! I encourage everyone to spread that inner love and find the good in every day.
Thank you to Kaybri Jones for sharing this story with us, and thanks to the kids at Clifton Hills Elementary School for making someone’s day – you never know how far a little kindness can go.
