Pay it forward

In light of recent life events affecting our family, my wife and I decided to make the time to again watch an old yet inspiring movie called 'Pay it forward.'

I suppose the reason we watched it, is because we have recently been on the receiving end of extreme kindness in our time of trouble.

The movie focuses on a social studies teacher (Mr Simonet played by Kevin Spacey) who challenges his 7th grade class to "Think of an idea to change the world and put it into practice."

Inspired by the school assignment, young Trevor (the son of Mrs McKinney, his alcoholic single parent Mum, played by Helen Hunt) comes up with an idea that changes many lives. He decides that instead of returning a favour, he will 'pay it forward' by doing good deeds for three people.

This altruistic approach to life is to be intentionally kind to three other people. It seemed that all three of Trevor's attempts at kindness appear to fail but then there is a turning point. 'Paying it forward' then becomes an infectious concept which others take to heart and intentionally implement.

This is giving with no self-hook. It's intention is in the words of Michael Jackson "to make this world a better place, for you and for me and the entire human race."

If you get a chance stream the movie on Amazon Prime.

Over the next week think of three situations in your own world in which your kindness could make a difference.

Some ideas from Oprah to help get us started http://www.oprah.com/inspiration/13-little-ways-to-make-the-world-a-better-place

Maybe, just maybe we too could start such a kindness virus?

"No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted."(Aesop). 

#Payitforward

#Amovieworthwatching

#ActsofKindnessareneverwasted