I have a story I would like to share in the interest of inspiring others. I work at a Community College in Northeast Iowa located just outside Dubuque, Iowa. Many of our students work part-time or full-time jobs in addition to going to school to pay tuition and fees, as well as books and living expenses. Our staff and faculty recognize the hardships students face and work to combat it through a variety of volunteer and service projects on campus. I want to highlight one person whose simple idea brought joy to many peoples afternoon one day last December.

Early in December Ryan Gaber, a current NICC student pursuing his Associate in Science degree in Biology, decided he wanted a Radio Flyer red wagon for Christmas. Odd, some would say, for a 20 year-old to ask for a classic child's toy for Christmas, but his parents obliged and prior to the end of the fall semester Ryan received a brand new wagon for Christmas. His intent was not to give or take rides, as many children do, but instead deliver holiday cheer around campus during a commonly stressful time: finals week. 

If you have hired someone to regularly come and clean your apartment for you, or perform some other type of home service, pay them more than they expect. Don't wait for them to ask for a raise...recognize their quality work without being asked. A small amount to you might be a lot to them!

If you commute across a bridge, try paying the toll for the car behind you in addition to paying your fee. You won't believe the (incredulous) big smile you'll receive if the person happens to catch up with you on the road!

When I was living in London, there is one incident that really stood out in my mind. I was walking to a Whitechapel supermarket and walked past a homeless man on the sidewalk with just a dirty blanket to cover him from the freezing winter cold. He wasn't asking or begging for money, he just looked so sad and so down and dirty my heart went out to him. I went into the nearest chicken shop and bought a big meal, went outside and gave it to him as well as 10 quid. He was of European descent and couldn't speak any English but he was so grateful. I felt wonderful just putting a smile on his face and giving him something warm in his stomach. The next week I went looking for him again but he was gone. I wanted to report his case to a charity near me that would go out and help him but he was no longer there. I hope he is ok.

I saw this on my way out to lunch today and though it was a small thing I was really touched by it. I saw an elderly Asian man carrying two fold-up chairs and a heavy bag struggling to get on and off an esculator. I then saw 5 strangers, two Indian guys, an older white couple, and a younger hipster girl all rush to help him and offer a hand. The old man was so appreciative and couldn’t speak any English (I think) but started bowing to say thanks to them. The smiles on the these strangers faces and their willingness to help made me think that there really are nice and decent people out there. I am recently going through depression and seeing this sort of random act of kindness to people no matter what race or age, really warmed my heart.

Over the summer my youth group went to New Orleans to help the families still struggling from the after effects of hurricane Katrina. Even though the tragedy happened years ago, many houses and areas are still waiting to be rebuilt. My youth group helped finish houses by painting them, putting siding on, and fixing roofs. Many people are aware of third world countries that need help but don't realize here in the US places still need help too.

My friend and I were walking through the mall over the weekend when I noticed a woman dropped one of her shopping bags. At first I thought she would realize and go back and get it but she didn't. I quickly picked it up and gave it to her. She was so thankful that a stranger was kind enough to do that. Even if the action you do is small, it could mean a great deal to someone.

My Mum and Dad came to London to visit me from Scotland. It was Christmas time and their suitcases were heavy with presents. They are pensioners and my Mum struggled with her bag. As she dragged it up the stairs in the crowded underground, someone from behind lifted it, helping her to the top of the stairs. She said when this person lifted her case, it was such a relief, a little angel in the underground. At the top when she turned around to say thank you, the person had already disappeared.

I found a lost pencil case on my desk during the lunch hour. I thought about how I'd feel if I lost my pencil case. I looked at it. There was a name! I didn't recognise it but I saw the class and knew the classroom. So I returned to it's owner. :)

I was at the drive through of my favorite coffee shop and found out that a totally unknown customer on the other side of the drive through had bought my coffee. How sweet is that!