Simple act of kindness gone a stray
Francisco Vaca
Leaders for Inclusion Coordinator @ Michigan Disability Rights Coalition | Leadership, Advocacy
"Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around." — Leo Buscaglia
"I intended to uplift someone with a lighthearted joke, but my words came across as insensitive and unsettling. Though my approach was rooted in kindness, which may have tempered the response I received, I couldn’t help but notice that my efforts seemed to amplify my ongoing challenges with expressing kindness effectively. I had hoped to help, but instead, I may have caused unintended harm, leaving me questioning my place in the world and whether my attempts to support others are only leading to more difficulties. As I advocate for a particular issue, I wonder—where does that leave me when others feel overlooked in the process? How can I ensure that my actions align with my intentions in a way that truly benefits those around me?"