No act of kindness is ever wasted. Ever.

So what is an act of kindness?

It should be self explanatory, but in case you missed the memo, let me elucidate.

Monte Zucker, one of the all time greats in the photo business, took the time to respond to an email I sent him; a 4 page letter that I received only a few short hours after I sent mine to him.

As a beginning professional photographer, I had no reason to even consider the possibility that he might even respond with an automated note - I was a nobody. But not to Monte.

Monte knew that everyone was special, and had incredible gifts that just had to be properly nurtured and allowed to grow. His willingness to take the time to encourage me has helped set the tone for my professional life, a tone of sharing and continual growth.

We have no idea what our words or actions will have on those we touch. Negative words are poison, and once they leave our lips (or keyboard) they are nearly impossible to erase. It is amazing how clearly they are remembered by those who heard, and how they affect those in the line of fire.

Positive words, on the other hand, don't usually make the news. But they are remembered, nurtured and cherished by those who have the fortune to be their recipient.

And they are life changing.

So back to kindness. What is kindness?

It is taking the time to help someone who has no possibility of paying you back. It is a smile; a kind word or a forgiving attitude. It is three minutes with a child, paying attention like there is noone else in the world.

It is knowing that you will leave each person you touch a little better than you found them.

Practice your kindness. The smiles you get in return are addicting.

Until next time!