"The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention." —Oscar Wilde.

So many of us want to make an impact, a difference in the world.

We think big but forget the basics.

Reminds me of an experience I had a few years back. There was a man selling oranges on the street this afternoon. No one was buying. The man seemed so alone. We approached and spoke to him about the day.

Simple things, where did you grow the oranges? Fresno. We were about 5 hours away. He had driven all that way to sell his oranges. He seemed to have little energy and looked so tired but was friendly and tried to speak with us all the same. Something made me think that he was hungry.

We said goodbye, went to a nearby market, and came back with some hot soup and bread. I was a little nervous as I reached out with the bag of food ... For you, I said. He didn't say anything but seemed to freeze looking confused. For a second, I worried I had been presumptuous.

Why? he asked. Just because I said. It's for you. I kept smiling. Hoping. Then, something lit up in his face and he just looked so grateful, smiling now as he accepted the bag. Thank you, Thank you, he said and shook our hands wishing us a happy new year.

We did not exchange names or numbers but we were no longer strangers. Humanity connected us.

We walked back to our car and as we drove away caught a glimpse of him sitting under a tree eating the soup. Next time, I won't hesitate.

Let’s make the world better by our being here.

Leave a legacy of love and kindness. Little gestures add up.

#humanity #kindnessmatters #loveeachother #leadwithlight #happynewyear