Try a little kindness; you'll benefit

When addressing graduates during graduation ceremonies, Kathleen H. Goeppinger, Ph.D., president and chief executive officer of Midwestern University, acknowledged the many achievements of the graduates during their years of rigorous study and clinical experiences. She then told them to remember the values they had learned as students at the University. "If you could be one thing, be kind," she told them. "Be kind to your patients, your family, your colleagues, and most importantly, to yourself."

Kindness seems to be greatly lacking these days. We put our desires first and foremost and forget those around us who may be hurting, ill, lonely or broke, and who could benefit greatly from a little kindness.

Just a smile, or a friendly greeting to someone you encounter during your day. A note (even an email) to someone who is out of the mainstream temporarily and would like to know she/he is not forgotten.

It takes but a little kindness to brighten someone's day. Try it. You'll find you enjoy it as much as the recipient of your kindness.

Lorraine Brand

Wheaton