Letter To The Editor: Finding Meaning Through Unexpected Acts of Kindness

Letter To The Editor:

Some days, no one honks, but here is a bible for your trouble. Leading a meaningful life is difficult. Often, you're defined by what others consider meaningful. A few years ago, I unknowingly tapped into something worthwhile, and like most things I stumble upon, I tried to bully my way to an outcome that is most favorable to me.

Some days it works, others it does not, but what I did not see coming was the ability to recognize how beautiful we all are. I see it every day now, but you have to look for it and not just let it pass you by. Community service work is rewarding; it has opened my eyes to what is important for the givers and the takers. I think that is how God works, and I'm not sure why it's taken me so long to figure it out.

What I am talking about is doing something nice for others for no other reason than you can. It may be something as simple as helping the elderly with their bags or volunteering for a worthwhile charity. Some of you know exactly what I'm talking about, so I may be preaching to the choir. Quite often, I do things for the wrong reason; however, I have a remarkable ability to come out on the right end. My motto is "it's not what you do, it's what they think you do." That's somewhat self-serving, but it's true. I have lots of friends from afar, but few who can get close to me without hating me for being so abrupt.

My expectations are too high; there is so much more we are capable of, yet many have given up on challenges. I'm not an easy guy to deal with. I'm easily angered, loud-mouthed, bullheaded, but what I didn't see coming was the inner peace I received when I got involved in helping others; it's changed me. Some days, no one honks, but it's still worth it.

Rusty Wheat

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