Recently, I saw a meme reminding me to be kind. It said to tip generously, smile at strangers, and let people in front of you in line.
With Trump as president, it’s time to remind everyone to be kind—radically kind.
A lot of folks are hurting right now. From kicking people off food stamps to gutting Social Security Disability, Trump is putting people in harm’s way. While he said during his campaign that no one would be “dying in the streets” if he were elected president, he has done nothing but ensure people have a hard time just staying alive and well.
I happen to personally know people who have become homeless under Trump. I know very well that, without a concerted effort to assist them, they would have died in the streets. This concerted effort—a testimony to radical kindness—includes housing someone for free, giving them food, and helping them get medical care. These things are financially and emotionally taxing. If you don’t have the resources to do this kind of thing, I completely understand. But there are many who do. You may be one of them.
If you do have the ability to be racially kind, now is the time to act.
Don’t count the initiatives of billionaires to help people. While they are well-meaning, it takes true grit to really help. And, yes, sometimes it takes time and money.
In the Age of Trump, keeping your kindness is key. Let people cut in front of you in line, sure. But, also, if someone reaches out to you for help, assist them. Take it a step further: if you are concerned about someone, reach out to them.
You never know. Your kindness could save a life.
